tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51375152931585652132023-11-16T04:39:19.076-06:00Sister Act 3Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-24884980335259964542011-08-01T08:09:00.002-05:002011-08-01T08:12:20.834-05:00ChangesMy dear ‘blog follower friends’!<br /><br />It has been a while since I last wrote but there are reasons for that which I’ll explain. Life is a mystery and we’re called to live in that mystery … sometimes understanding bits and pieces of it and other times not at all.<br /><br />After prayer, discernment, conversation with good friends and companions the call has come clear from the Spirit of Life. It is time to return to ‘home base’. I’ve been ‘in the field’ of Nicaragua for 3½ years now. I have been given the opportunity to learn much about myself, my Nicaraguan sisters and brothers and my God, and I’m grateful for the all of this. I have received a great deal and been able to share myself with many new friends. However, it is now time to return. I will fly back to Central America on July 28th in order to “despedirme” (say farewell), celebrate my time with my friends there and finish up some office matters. I will return to Michigan on the 10th of August and take up residence from whence I came, namely in Detroit with my CSJ Goldengate community. Though I have no immediate plans for future ministry involvement, I do look forward to volunteering time at the Centro de San Jose which my friend, Marie Benzing, csj, has established in the Hispanic sector of Detroit where tutoring and language skills assistance have been developed. I ask you to send a prayer my way as I transition. It is never easy to leave a setting that has been a part of your very being, but the journey of life is just that, a journey, and that implies movement and change from time to time.<br /><br />I have recently enjoyed the most wonderful experience of our CSSJ Event which took place in St. Louis, Missouri, from July 9-13. It was energy and grace filled and found some 860 of us from all around the world sharing, dreaming, taking action, enjoying each other’s company and so much more. Our strong justice stance had to do with Human Trafficking, modern day enslavement. I encourage you to find out all you can about this evil and do whatever is in your heart to free persons from this bondage. If you wish to learn more about this terrible injustice you might want to <a style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.csjoseph.org">check out our CSJ website</a>, then go to "click here to read coverage from the National Catholic Reporter”. <br /><br />Thanks for being open to learning more about the injustices our sisters and brothers suffer and more importantly how we can work against such evil.<br /><br />I am considering continuing this blog communication. My friend, Ruth, who has so graciously posted and titled and placed photos etc. for “Sister Act 3” is encouraging me to continue with “Sister Act 4”!! We’ll see how it goes. I thank you for your interest in my writings from Nicaragua and your support over these past years.<br /><br />If you are in the habit of sending donations for the Nicaraguan projects you might want to now consider sending such support to a local ‘good cause’: <br /><br />St. Stephen - Mary, Mother of the Church Parish<br />4311 Central St.<br />Detroit, MI 44210-2785<br /><br />Attn: Sr. Marie Benzing, CSJ - Centro de San Jose<br /><br />Blessings as you continue your own personal journey in life.<br /><br />Your grateful sister,<br />JeanneJeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-62129447430843389242011-05-30T11:05:00.003-05:002011-05-30T11:21:42.074-05:00On Nature and Nurture<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;">Hi there you blog followers!</span> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I am remembering the Burma Shave jingles that appeared along the highways when I was a child.<span style=""> </span>If you’re not at least 55 years old, you won’t know what I’m referring to!<span style=""> </span>My original one is:<span style=""> </span>“The rains have come…the heat is great… the mud and insects don’t abate!”<span style=""> </span>Yes, we have now entered into the six months of rain which is our alternate season to six months of total dryness.<span style=""> </span>In a strange twist, this time is referred to as WINTER.<span style=""> </span>Now it has nothing to do with winter as you’ve probably gathered from my previous comments about the heat!<span style=""> </span>Everything greens up immediately and that’s a good thing.<span style=""> </span>Now if we just don’t have TOO much rain the farmers will be able to plant their beans and corn.<span style=""> </span>We pray for a good planting and harvest. Pray with us, please.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicquviVt0BfEqcbHbi9wUSetFTE989LS9-SOpSe_PvZ-Gcht3L5Y2cOtvnCs-K7Ijc8x0cA8Bn7Zqm4bD22DIPTPiAVkNtom3lSwxFyyv47QPpc5WjX4V0n0UwF3r-6rJ42oBwaU682WzP/s1600/IMG_3737.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicquviVt0BfEqcbHbi9wUSetFTE989LS9-SOpSe_PvZ-Gcht3L5Y2cOtvnCs-K7Ijc8x0cA8Bn7Zqm4bD22DIPTPiAVkNtom3lSwxFyyv47QPpc5WjX4V0n0UwF3r-6rJ42oBwaU682WzP/s400/IMG_3737.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612541853622588322" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> "Ancient image of 'god' of cacao and information about cacao"</span><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">This past weekend I had the opportunity to travel north of Managua about 3 hours to the department of Matagalpa.<span style=""> </span>I went with a friend and her fiancé and we had a delightful time.<span style=""> </span>We checked out the Castillo de Cacao….The Chocolate Castle!<span style=""> </span>It is designed like a small Middle Ages castle and the entire process of turning raw cacao beans into rich, delicious chocolate is carried out there.<span style=""> </span>It’s in a lovely setting amidst the hills of this area and includes a museum of everything chocolate…candy bar wrappers, varieties from many countries and of course there are samples!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcv0dxeWciCnK07HlV7XyJ_idRVxEtKD03ajUwbUyWdXCVK4j2z9YXnQaAtI1pAcQO_AOdipYxDqR433gyCu_S1sJdkLKTud0OIAES4HkIdvbzAgDKXAL848s0NixwG1qr42Beo09jd2f/s1600/IMG_3747.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcv0dxeWciCnK07HlV7XyJ_idRVxEtKD03ajUwbUyWdXCVK4j2z9YXnQaAtI1pAcQO_AOdipYxDqR433gyCu_S1sJdkLKTud0OIAES4HkIdvbzAgDKXAL848s0NixwG1qr42Beo09jd2f/s400/IMG_3747.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612541853330926066" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"Mural in Casa Materna with Foundresses in the Foreground"</span><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The real reason to for the trip was to become more acquainted with the Casa Materna which for 20 years has been receiving pregnant women from the surrounding rural area, especially those who are ‘at risk’ be it because of age, difficult pregnancy or just because they are far away from a medical setting or midwife who will help with the delivery of their baby.<span style=""> </span>They come in the final week or two of their pregnancy.<span style=""> </span>Casa Materna was built to accommodate 20 women but there are currently 27, so some beds have to serve for two very pregnant women.<span style=""> </span>The staff and volunteers do a great deal of teaching and preparation for birthing and also teach and help in the surrounding rural areas.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdtLtF5v6jNPO7QwNQ-gtrlAugnIYJOm3Xm761T1KU_UZiaAw1l8B4QX5mjH_oXaeKtzT6xVjP-OBbvR0YbbYiMu-A_iXteKVNGvs7t3SF5z87Gkm2GXgbVstrF8o6MBPHdX8tbMFuGcb/s1600/IMG_3784.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdtLtF5v6jNPO7QwNQ-gtrlAugnIYJOm3Xm761T1KU_UZiaAw1l8B4QX5mjH_oXaeKtzT6xVjP-OBbvR0YbbYiMu-A_iXteKVNGvs7t3SF5z87Gkm2GXgbVstrF8o6MBPHdX8tbMFuGcb/s400/IMG_3784.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612541863473895330" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style=""> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"Cloth Banner in Casa Materna"</span><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">We were able to stay in their B and B for the night and it was delightful to be in a smaller, quieter pueblo and hear church bells ringing on Sunday morning and enjoy the view of mountains and hills.<span style=""> </span>The people were delightful and we spent Sunday morning enjoying a typical Nica breakfast followed by a tour of the setting.<span style=""> </span>Doña Chila who is a woman my age and is a partera (midwife) was our breakfast provider and tour guide.<span style=""> </span>The women deliver in the hospital of Matagalpa so only in an extreme emergency would she actually deliver and baby, but she teaches and cooks and does a myriad of things.<span style=""> </span>The project is an NGO and they struggle to have nourishing food each day for the women, but they manage somehow.<span style=""> </span>An interesting fact is that a Michigan woman, Kitty Madden, is the director and has been for many years.<span style=""> </span>Unfortunately, she was in Michigan when we visited!!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-FqRFn2Cb9dBjMjVHx6trxRxIbEeyezTKDBZd8JYOLG5N1fFheVYqAMw6D2cBPPmbAPWdvXJoTljiagOlAqPfNCVp1smOutNdssieUbxlKtzXVVaQdVNsL8SflLPKK0a2MZCpyHG8TwQ/s1600/IMG_3778.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-FqRFn2Cb9dBjMjVHx6trxRxIbEeyezTKDBZd8JYOLG5N1fFheVYqAMw6D2cBPPmbAPWdvXJoTljiagOlAqPfNCVp1smOutNdssieUbxlKtzXVVaQdVNsL8SflLPKK0a2MZCpyHG8TwQ/s400/IMG_3778.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612541860545339202" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"Christy, Dona Chila (midwife), Jeanne in front of banner"</span><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Some of the board members for Casa Materna are folks I know from Gesu Parish in Detroit and another is a cousin of a friend.<span style=""> </span>I just ‘happened’ to encounter David, the cousin of friends I’ve met here, in the airport last November.<span style=""> </span>He was returning after a board meeting and was behind me in line.<span style=""> </span>He noted on my backpack ID that I had initials after my name.<span style=""> </span>“Are you a Sister?” he asked.<span style=""> </span>And so the conversation started and I Iearned that we had another connection.<span style=""> </span>The world is so very, very small and we are all sisters and brothers in the midst of it.<span style=""> </span>What a grace to live in this reality!</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I shall bring this sharing to an end for this time.<span style=""> </span>Until the next blog, thanks again for being interested and following my journey here in Nica land.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Love and gratitude,</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Jeanne</span></p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-49778828790378102902011-04-25T22:40:00.004-05:002011-04-25T22:57:02.404-05:00All of life is a journey<!--StartFragment-->April 18, 2011 <p class="MsoNormal">Managua & Diriamba, Nicaragua</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPR6sfDW-KOxASKT4b_XVj4jFE0ihE1A412xjMXzBUhxMSjpounIhmo-WB3a__ndokolul3b4m9QFfRtPQj_JDqfugCVj6E3UzzbLjW31a6SsXx29MJdl_5CaidrihZThsaZkjpV1HPeBA/s1600/050.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPR6sfDW-KOxASKT4b_XVj4jFE0ihE1A412xjMXzBUhxMSjpounIhmo-WB3a__ndokolul3b4m9QFfRtPQj_JDqfugCVj6E3UzzbLjW31a6SsXx29MJdl_5CaidrihZThsaZkjpV1HPeBA/s400/050.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599734139740744834" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">I’m beginning this posting before Holy Week and will finish it after Easter.<span style=""> </span>Kari and I are going to Diriamba, a town south and with more elevation than Managua.<span style=""> </span>The principle reasons for doing this are to have some space and time for retreat and to participate in the religious expression of the Nicaraguan folks as they celebrate the last three days of Lent.<span style=""> </span>A lesser reason is get out of Managua and to have a cooler ambiance in which to relax.<span style=""> </span>Hopefully, I will have some photos to accompany this blog that will give you an idea of Diriamba and the religious services.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWTcL9p1NISeMSBfxWTA8ZBZdFjgi9XCHy89W8HPq49BvLS0jWmFCZKspJgF_p5S19MRAC9MYoBF17wMRt3DS6BY4qapjdz6LfoPnIFjDuxuDZMRslhNRSZa7XhTFRxDO1zTBHEJxLLqG/s1600/042.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWTcL9p1NISeMSBfxWTA8ZBZdFjgi9XCHy89W8HPq49BvLS0jWmFCZKspJgF_p5S19MRAC9MYoBF17wMRt3DS6BY4qapjdz6LfoPnIFjDuxuDZMRslhNRSZa7XhTFRxDO1zTBHEJxLLqG/s400/042.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599734133386372978" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Holy Week in Nicaragua is a ‘vacation week’.<span style=""> </span>I suspect that at one time it was a way of freeing up the working folks so they could participate in the various religious ceremonies…just as in the States when we had Good Friday ‘off’ or at least from noon until 3:00pm.<span style=""> </span>Here, there is no school and although Thursday and Friday are ‘free days’, many people take the whole week and travel to the beach or to be with relatives.<span style=""> </span>Unfortunately, it’s a time of sorrow due to the many traffic accidents and drownings.</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">April 25, 2011</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QZvOohDF4IY_eCVnJyc8mxWzv2ENDgOIjTYMS2YGp7NijsbxrLAlQYm5xFkdM-YOupDz4n6NQ_87cwTnVp8SVmv8EPQ4D2V4WncMtc5baQleuI4F1KqO0iHv-FFTXH-yNax4C4H72H0K/s1600/039.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QZvOohDF4IY_eCVnJyc8mxWzv2ENDgOIjTYMS2YGp7NijsbxrLAlQYm5xFkdM-YOupDz4n6NQ_87cwTnVp8SVmv8EPQ4D2V4WncMtc5baQleuI4F1KqO0iHv-FFTXH-yNax4C4H72H0K/s400/039.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599734126674432610" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Well, I just returned from a delightful three days in a very welcoming pueblo and a<span style=""> </span>stay with the Sisters of the Assumption at their retreat center.<span style=""> </span>Kari and I experienced Holy Thursday with the San Sebastian Community which is the largest of the local churches. We returned there Friday evening in time for the traditional procession with the statue of the crucified Jesus in a coffin carried by various teams of men.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>see photos) This was preceded by the statue of St. John the Apostle and followed by the statue of the Sorrowful Mother.<span style=""> </span>As you can see in the photo, it was quite a gathering of folks together with some young fellows portraying the centurions and little girls as angels.<span style=""> </span>The devotion of the people is remarkable and the keeping of traditions is very important.<br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzzPLxYOInpBkhywYBQw_o3sWiG-GFzC1oH8hT_Y0Xw0FOWhyphenhyphenoyqC2O00I7NHL1aALWgl-XRRgNtDOfibFXW231GYq3VkjPtweyCwOQRa8akYMopvM0lo1xzCYS5ERk4McERB1hHaX8U_2/s1600/036.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzzPLxYOInpBkhywYBQw_o3sWiG-GFzC1oH8hT_Y0Xw0FOWhyphenhyphenoyqC2O00I7NHL1aALWgl-XRRgNtDOfibFXW231GYq3VkjPtweyCwOQRa8akYMopvM0lo1xzCYS5ERk4McERB1hHaX8U_2/s400/036.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599734123404517986" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">We experienced Good Friday in the parish church of San Caralampio.<span style=""> </span>I had no idea about this fellow and had a dickens of a time even pronouncing his name!<span style=""> </span>This is a smaller church and a very devout congregation.<span style=""> </span>Saturday evening we stayed on the grounds of the retreat house and celebrated with the Sisters of the Assumption as we did also on Sunday morning.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xg3AKju-jN4OUkCHQqZuSpgq6azV9AJqGODNkcpUq4tcrdPOpASVN4-CJFH1ssOVyKdT-azGloTob-LLnM3xggvMjDchzsf6j39nLse0ve6nOQuorU5VDXVO2-1L6Gzlm3DwIl0dr62G/s1600/046.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xg3AKju-jN4OUkCHQqZuSpgq6azV9AJqGODNkcpUq4tcrdPOpASVN4-CJFH1ssOVyKdT-azGloTob-LLnM3xggvMjDchzsf6j39nLse0ve6nOQuorU5VDXVO2-1L6Gzlm3DwIl0dr62G/s400/046.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599734138568386946" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">All in all it was a very wonderful way to live the Triduum and Easter (La Pascua).<span style=""> </span>The grounds are extensive and have tons of trees of many varieties and fruits and plants and flowers in abundance.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">And now I’m off to Louisiana (Baton Rouge and New Orleans) for our annual Assembly and Mission Circle gathering which includes folks from California, New Mexico, Kansas and we Nicaraguans.<span style=""> </span>I’ll only be gone for eight days but it will be a full and enjoyable time.</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Thanks for staying connected and interested in this venture.<span style=""> </span>If Oscar A. reads this new posting…please comment and send your e-mail address.<span style=""> </span>I cannot respond to comments.<span style=""> </span>They do not contain an address of the sender.<span style=""> </span>I would like to be in contact with you. </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Easter Season Blessings and Gratitude,</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Jeanne, csj<span style=""> </span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-5596125420459544822011-03-29T19:59:00.004-06:002011-03-29T20:22:37.199-06:00All in a day's work<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBwSv76XdMzVN7m-ecCkPudejd55bn-vfZoKXQHsQyH0DwB0N7TPgV3iyLqgWQZyRpD79jvDYVpD45SePRJJAdt7dj0RXDTV1rkXDTLWECLAGlDetysnSrpcNt2L66LqRZmg1iW9cDaEYS/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBwSv76XdMzVN7m-ecCkPudejd55bn-vfZoKXQHsQyH0DwB0N7TPgV3iyLqgWQZyRpD79jvDYVpD45SePRJJAdt7dj0RXDTV1rkXDTLWECLAGlDetysnSrpcNt2L66LqRZmg1iW9cDaEYS/s400/016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589688694334763842" border="0" /></a> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> Greetings from balmy, sunny Managua.<span style=""> </span>I’ve been thinking of writing a summary of the various projects in which we are currently engaged here in the Mateare/Ciudad Sandino rural areas.<span style=""> </span>Many of you pray for our people and a better life for them and some send donations to help the projects along.<span style=""> </span>Both categories are greatly appreciated.<span style=""> </span>So that you know where your efforts are directed, I’ll mention and explain the various endeavors.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"><span style=""> </span>Some are directly funded by organizations, others use your donations and there are times when your donations help to ‘fill in the gaps’ of the formal projects which makes everything move along with less struggle.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><b style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Educational Assistance:</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Scholarships</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> – small amounts of money to facilitate four university students ($25.00/month for transportation and food) and five high schoolers and two primary school students ($25.00/month for transportation). This current year we’ve added a family that has to spend $2.00/day just to get their two little ones to school each day and a young woman who neither hears nor speaks but who has worked very hard to complete secondary school and has now entered university level studies. Her mother deserves a great deal of credit as she’s been determined that her daughter with different </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">capabilities will have a future. There are many more seeking help but this is all we can handle right now.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08rveLM47GLayldhJSrxFQ_lOo21N6Qw9ej351ArQf6PgZMZmN_QyIRvNE91Fybj-gqF4AS19tt_JpwY67K4mMCWoDAzUyNgxfHdAWkyfCwRQ420YX27OFFdvEzWz5QApfmMHva5ZDF0B/s1600/067.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08rveLM47GLayldhJSrxFQ_lOo21N6Qw9ej351ArQf6PgZMZmN_QyIRvNE91Fybj-gqF4AS19tt_JpwY67K4mMCWoDAzUyNgxfHdAWkyfCwRQ420YX27OFFdvEzWz5QApfmMHva5ZDF0B/s400/067.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589688699002539794" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"></span><b style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Family Life Improvement</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">:<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Latrines </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">- more sanitary ‘outhouses’ that can be kept cleaner with hopes for advancing an even more ‘user friendly’ version.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Cement and Iron Tanks to Retain Rain Water - </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">round cylinders constructed by our own people to catch and store the water from the heavy rains for use during the six dry months of the year.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iNId6sIkSFbephDEgP7zHulc1EK2qQL7URbUIAH-VXgEXfXdUdfHGVM0TuDEvm9yjFcd5ZqjB3lSd1WGQ4DZXZWIFaIFxZ0wJc2RZ1v0l1QUjD4ZjyO2pA3IaZAFesOD_KVoGxRMDmI_/s1600/DSC03077.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iNId6sIkSFbephDEgP7zHulc1EK2qQL7URbUIAH-VXgEXfXdUdfHGVM0TuDEvm9yjFcd5ZqjB3lSd1WGQ4DZXZWIFaIFxZ0wJc2RZ1v0l1QUjD4ZjyO2pA3IaZAFesOD_KVoGxRMDmI_/s400/DSC03077.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589688706661419394" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Laundry Sinks </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">- concrete structures for washing clothes, fitted with a tube so that the used water will be directed underwater to irrigate plants in the area and keep mosquito/fly reproduction down due to pooled water under the sinks. Before the women were using a stone on which to wash their clothes.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Improved Stoves for Cooking </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">- the concrete wood burning stoves located inside the houses are being fitted with a chimney and simple flue so that the smoke is directed outside of the home thus creating a healthier atmosphere inside the home.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Family Vegetable Gardens</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> – assisting families in planning, executing and harvesting vegetables according to organic principles in order to improve meal menus.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlcFFQTdNyNC0ANg9KIGdNoE77SgnQs3nRUto-HytH_SOaKuw5yx_AqtWU6pIiMnZ6Qjtl-lWzRoTKEFubEkRuIx-Zf5PasfIiMAHPOLdOB_BMiN1C7rkgTOEmDiMCvip2g1IRdMSnU75/s1600/108_1514.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlcFFQTdNyNC0ANg9KIGdNoE77SgnQs3nRUto-HytH_SOaKuw5yx_AqtWU6pIiMnZ6Qjtl-lWzRoTKEFubEkRuIx-Zf5PasfIiMAHPOLdOB_BMiN1C7rkgTOEmDiMCvip2g1IRdMSnU75/s400/108_1514.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589688703407884018" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> </span><b style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Animal Production</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">:</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Pregnant Cows</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> – helping women purchase a pregnant cow which multiplies the animals and produces milk and cheese for nourishment and for selling.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Set of Chickens – </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">helping families purchase five chickens, one rooster and screening for a pen, which will provide eggs, meat and a larger group of chickens.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Ecology Measures:</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Energy Plots - </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"><span style=""> </span>assisting farmers in establishing “small forests” of trees by means of reforestation, so that these trees can be used for future use…fuel for cooking, for the making of saleable carbon, construction etc.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Water Projects – </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">assisting communities in working toward safer drinking water and more water availability for irrigating gardens, maintaining animals, cooking, cleaning, washing clothes etc.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Clean Up Campaigns – </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">part of the wonderful work of our Ecology Brigades to preserve our environment and teach ecological modes of living and working.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">We also help out with emergency situations by working with the community in a collaborative way to meet the need.<span style=""> </span>My home parish helped one community repair their well and replace their tubing and we’re working on other water projects, as water is the basic and first need for all.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Hopefully, this helps to explain a bit of what we do in Cantera.<span style=""> </span>This is just one aspect but probably the easiest to grasp and mostly takes place in the rural areas.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">There is a lot of accompaniment and development of personal qualities for leadership and community organizing, as well as workshops on topics of gender, development, spirituality and evaluation.<span style=""> </span>Work with youth of the city is also a priority.<span style=""> </span>There is a whole area of Cantera in Ciudad Sandino, once a refugee town, where we have a pre-school and many youth development opportunities as well as a library where youth can come and study using the textbooks that are available.<span style=""> </span>A well developed network of natural medicine is also an important aspect of Cantera.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"> Hopefully, this helps to make your efforts more tangible and explain how Cantera works using the principles of Popular Education and self-determination.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">I thought I’d end by mentioning one of my many joys here in Nicaragua…the children.<span style=""> </span>Just this morning as I was sweeping and cleaning the road and trench in front of our house, I became aware of a little lst. grade neighbor girl standing beside me.<span style=""> </span>She was all ready to leave for school<span style=""> </span>…. scrubbed, shampooed, pressed and fresh looking and just wanted a hug and a few words before picking up her backpack and heading off …<span style=""> </span>a great way to start my day!<span style=""> </span>What joy have you had today in the midst of personal concerns and global problems?<span style=""> </span>Don’t miss the joy!</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Until the next time….blessings and gratitude.<span style=""> </span>Thanks for all you are and do.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Gratefully,<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Jeanne</span></p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-51547053443952004552011-03-10T19:34:00.003-06:002011-03-10T19:40:18.636-06:00Random Acts of Kindness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OxaYRoxRg1Zpy2tl9ul-zkBENhcqJzo9Q15RuZ2ME7V6400NZVOUJbnS4erypzVMQsTPW-lrhAZuzxqbLK7PQE3UI-YC53EA15wajg7IT-JfTkr3VuQXz-5D4sVvSP_d0CafYyrpTRlw/s1600/108_1499.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OxaYRoxRg1Zpy2tl9ul-zkBENhcqJzo9Q15RuZ2ME7V6400NZVOUJbnS4erypzVMQsTPW-lrhAZuzxqbLK7PQE3UI-YC53EA15wajg7IT-JfTkr3VuQXz-5D4sVvSP_d0CafYyrpTRlw/s400/108_1499.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582630113846536802" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }a:link, span.MsoHyperlink { color: blue; text-decoration: underline; }a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed { color: purple; text-decoration: underline; }p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style><p class="MsoNoSpacing"> </p><span style="font-size:100%;">It’s about time for me to check in once again.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Actually, I’m overdue!</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Hopefully, those of you who are still in the grip of winter weather are finding some hopeful signs of a warmer future.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Here we are still experiencing the more pleasant time of the year but each afternoon I’m reminded of the heat to come as it gets warmer each day.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">I’ll not complain!!</span><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Recently, one of the sisters of my congregation visited us for a week in preparation for bringing a group of high school students to Nicaragua next February.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">I thought it might be interesting for you to hear the observations of a person who was experiencing a very different reality for the first time. Her perceptions are very typical of the folks who come to such a land as ours. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GdEP6kKGRvbbffYXbM-yf_7WdZZK_nUbHGE5uwbmiaaQcIB0H3y8GsBPWFSOOxtjQAE-wCKGwf9rb_pRCzdboutmkfBjgc690PY7cwIOEZRqUr-TgpUSxmgbYVtaq-9GCyMgFpD679Wz/s1600/100_1457.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GdEP6kKGRvbbffYXbM-yf_7WdZZK_nUbHGE5uwbmiaaQcIB0H3y8GsBPWFSOOxtjQAE-wCKGwf9rb_pRCzdboutmkfBjgc690PY7cwIOEZRqUr-TgpUSxmgbYVtaq-9GCyMgFpD679Wz/s400/100_1457.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582630109622409330" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Everything is so different! … There’s very little personal space! …</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">There are people selling everything, everywhere. …</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">There’s a lot of physical openness (the outside and the inside are one!) …</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">There is plastic everywhere, in every form</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">…</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">There’s constant noise.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">…</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">The people are very warm and receptive …</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">It’s hard to orient yourself.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">…</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Kids are kids no matter where you are on this planet. …</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">There are lots of smiles.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">…</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">We can live with less.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">…</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">We’re really not entitled to anything</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">…</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBT8abSzbghXhKEKdN4UuwAxBB1pt9hGjZCoKWy3PDjpTvvtarnZNhuQxIlLOjNpcM9IUwSnoOA2Fd-COLdkTOSg-i3opybdUhyphenhyphengKPASv4wIBsTGdrNeEH_WMglDJ44QmNvr2fsfO7Tjs/s1600/075.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBT8abSzbghXhKEKdN4UuwAxBB1pt9hGjZCoKWy3PDjpTvvtarnZNhuQxIlLOjNpcM9IUwSnoOA2Fd-COLdkTOSg-i3opybdUhyphenhyphengKPASv4wIBsTGdrNeEH_WMglDJ44QmNvr2fsfO7Tjs/s400/075.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582630099334122562" border="0" /></a><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">These observations give us much to ponder as we begin Lent and try to be open to life in whatever form it presents itself….through each person -</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">no matter the diversity, through nature, through insights and inspirations etc.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">One of our sisters is working with our program, “St. Joseph, Worker” located in New Orleans, LA </span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">which invites volunteers to participate for a year in various social work activities.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">In her recent blog Jackie proposed uniting with others in doing Random Acts of Kindness – “being attentive to new life and goodness” during the Lenten Season.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Maybe you’d be interested in joining in this venture.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">I’ve started and hope to see it through until Easter.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">If you’re interested in learning more about the St. Joseph, Worker program, the link can be found on our website:</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.csjoseph.org/">www.csjoseph.org</a></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">which also includes the ‘Sister Act 3’ link.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Life here goes on with very little improvement for the poor of the land.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">We’re in the dry season so at least there aren’t experiencing the problems which come with the intense rains.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Every now and then there’s a ray of hope and so one hangs onto those moments.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Of course, the children are always a symbol of hope.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">So I’ll include a photo of our children as a reminder that we all need to hope but also work toward a better future for all.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">What Random Act of Kindness did you have the opportunity to perform today?</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-71358102994658600392011-02-02T21:46:00.003-06:002011-02-02T21:55:15.606-06:00Tropical Greetings!<style>@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Secti</style>Managua, Nicaragua <p class="MsoNoSpacing">February 1, 2011<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xreyaYhcpVzEimB7DPwUCi1d9uSY3A4N6PHCCbYoFLqWr-Djt258F7mKQecRVpj9gteAVUquB8411Fi6gE7c1VB0JdL8yBDv2QulQhg6ZggpjcRuvxusQhn3DZZ2t6M_kSaLNo_Afqjy/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xreyaYhcpVzEimB7DPwUCi1d9uSY3A4N6PHCCbYoFLqWr-Djt258F7mKQecRVpj9gteAVUquB8411Fi6gE7c1VB0JdL8yBDv2QulQhg6ZggpjcRuvxusQhn3DZZ2t6M_kSaLNo_Afqjy/s400/008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569305398191654450" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Reporting in from the land of lakes and volcanoes … and periodic ‘shakes’ – we’ve had two just lately!</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">I arrived back in Managua on Wednesday the 19<sup>th</sup> after a rather protracted time in the States where I visited my family and many friends, made my annual retreat of 6 days, had far too many medical matters checked out, participated in our congregational visitation by the Vatican appointed visitors and among other matters, ate too much!!<span style=""> </span>The last week was spent in Chicago where I was privileged to participate in the First Profession of a member of our congregation.<span style=""> </span>All winter clothing, and there were many items, were left in Chicago and sometime between now and next winter they will find their way back to ‘base camp’ in Detroit.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNzGP6nO1ZDHtRRyLtjRBSAtJV5apk-lrSLuKsoHxqQVIcMomtRpQAk9utCajEuB-iajCB7lB2XwGZZ-x2P682MrZfDb1ibnKGciMurPZrawTqqCCrJWnfE3dYsMgL1r8vEhvVNWCWkqts/s1600/Frangipani+Flowers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNzGP6nO1ZDHtRRyLtjRBSAtJV5apk-lrSLuKsoHxqQVIcMomtRpQAk9utCajEuB-iajCB7lB2XwGZZ-x2P682MrZfDb1ibnKGciMurPZrawTqqCCrJWnfE3dYsMgL1r8vEhvVNWCWkqts/s400/Frangipani+Flowers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569305402152163026" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">I thought you’d appreciate a bit of sunshine and warmth and balmy breezes, so I’m including those in this blog.<span style=""> </span>Hopefully, you can feel them.<span style=""> </span>I’ll include photos to jog your memory of warmer climes.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">We’ve been into planning sessions because we are beginning the year anew here in Nicaragua. It’s comparable to September in the States. The children will return to classes in mid-February if not sooner - private schools start at the beginning of the month.<span style=""> </span>I’m sure the parents are ready to have their little and big students get back into routine and the neighbors are, too.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhba5CMKYLFAuPRTpCz_GTkklYQxvL8Mls0o5t1CPq9ADww1Mf1k8IwhjcIylwECb0_jjiYKTFr8NFMbX4nNITb4-vrdhfbSQYPrq72asFvBkbvxPZpg2xhKiykqCqeitUPPXp-m1ZEJ6R2/s1600/IMG_0107+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhba5CMKYLFAuPRTpCz_GTkklYQxvL8Mls0o5t1CPq9ADww1Mf1k8IwhjcIylwECb0_jjiYKTFr8NFMbX4nNITb4-vrdhfbSQYPrq72asFvBkbvxPZpg2xhKiykqCqeitUPPXp-m1ZEJ6R2/s400/IMG_0107+%25282%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569305412568625042" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;">While I was home my sister-in-law gave me a newspaper clipping about a project being planned by a young man, Erick, from my home town of Flint.<span style=""> </span>Now Flint suffers from a less than great reputation, but good things/people do emanate from there.<span style=""> </span>This lad is a student at Carmen-Ainsworth High School, the school my nieces and nephews attended many years ago. Erick’s a swimmer, as were my nieces and nephews, so in more than one way, I was interested in this young man’s project.<span style=""> </span>It seems Erick became aware of the water crisis present in our world and so he decided to do something about it.<span style=""> </span>He decided to link his swimming to a water project that provides safe drinking water for impoverished areas. On December 30<sup>th</sup> he swam 10 miles in his high school pool which is equivalent to 704 laps. It took him 6 hours and 8 minutes to accomplish the feat.<span style=""> </span>He had asked friends, family and anybody who’d respond to sponsor him.<span style=""> </span>He raised $15,095.00 for water.org.<span style=""> </span>I wrote him a letter of encouragement before hand and told him of my gratitude for his interest in water projects and his efforts.<span style=""> </span>I explained my experience in Nicaragua and that I had experienced the great need for water projects.<span style=""> </span>Recently I received a response written after the fact.<span style=""> </span>In his communication of gratitude, Erick said, “God used a variety of people in a variety of ways…through prayers, encouragement and financial support. What an amazing thing that God used so many people to spread His love (through availability of water, the basic requirement for life … <span style="font-size: 8pt;">my words!</span>)<span style="font-size: 8pt;"> </span>around the world.”<span style="font-size: 8pt;"> </span></p> <span style="font-size:8pt;"> </span><p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">They calculate that $25.00 will provide one person with clean water for life.<span style=""> </span>So, one creative teen was able to raise enough money to accomplish this for over 600 persons. We can each make a difference in our school, family, neighborhood, world by using our talents, skills, creativity, connections, etc.<span style=""> </span>It might be through encouragement of another, prayer support, donation of money or resources or whatever.<span style=""> </span>We can each do something to make a difference.<span style=""> </span>What might you have done recently to accomplish a difference?<span style=""> </span>Credit yourself and share it with another.<span style=""> </span>Perhaps the other person will be inspired to creatively make a difference, too.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">I will be back with you before long.<span style=""> </span>I’m grateful for all of you who take time to follow and read, Sister Act 3.<span style=""> </span>Many have told me of your interest and I’ve connected with other folks because of your connecting.<span style=""> </span>Blessings on your new year…gosh we’re already into the second month.<span style=""> </span>How time flies when we’re thinking of others and making a difference in the lives of others.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Love and Peace,</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Jeanne</p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-12953546656241166622010-12-18T10:31:00.003-06:002010-12-18T10:39:12.398-06:00Feliz Navidad<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fndvmwgsKdCkAkDeFFmyGirJyXwFQNhS07Cm8K6LzBPCmRlk4YD3LaQEGKETIlYYkS9d9rwWs_WTchnYGgFkLHcmKM4DlRbG8xDBIRsEPDaEaetKxEhmCyHLLMVwFfmf7bLYFPgS-3US/s1600/image001+including+ninos%252C+etc..jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fndvmwgsKdCkAkDeFFmyGirJyXwFQNhS07Cm8K6LzBPCmRlk4YD3LaQEGKETIlYYkS9d9rwWs_WTchnYGgFkLHcmKM4DlRbG8xDBIRsEPDaEaetKxEhmCyHLLMVwFfmf7bLYFPgS-3US/s400/image001+including+ninos%252C+etc..jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552061982183540994" border="0" /></a><br /><br /> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Greetings from VERY FROZEN Michigan!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I’m not having any trouble realizing that I’m not in Nicaragua.<span style=""> </span>All I have to do is feel my nose and fingers and I’m convinced.<span style=""> </span>Now, just why would someone leave Nicaragua at this time of the year when the temps are 68 -<span style=""> </span>89 and the skies semi-cloudy and the breezes balmy??<span style=""> </span>I don’t think it’s necessary <span style=""> </span>to answer that justifiable question.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I hadn’t planned on blogging while I was home in the States but I find that I miss not staying in touch, so here I am!<span style=""> </span>Many of our sisters and other friends comment on the blog and how much they enjoy hearing about the ventures and adventures of this blogger.<span style=""> </span>It’s a great way to stay in touch and to link south to north and now I’m linking north to south.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I am very aware of the Advent season here and grateful that this year we have four full weeks <span style=""> </span>of this season.<span style=""> </span>It’s a beautiful time to reflect and to try to stay focused on the real reason for all this anticipation and preparation, while at the same time enjoying the Christmas preparations all around.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">You’ll be glad to know that my snow/ice driving skills kicked back in immediately and that’s a very good thing as it’s a real challenge these days.<span style=""> </span>Fortunately, MOST people are using common sense and driving slowly and not hitting brakes unnecessarily….however, there are THOSE OTHERS….so one must keep all eyes, ears and nerves on “the others” while at the same time navigating one’s own vehicle.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPeom3EItOAj1kuO_rpvrv_uD_XKFgaMN8pZogGpGLBweeNDg1sBVwbgAfRL-HUHjjnVCtyNPBx9zxMp32wDtJBJY2dwxpnsW6uW0ntbZq6l6eQ8fNUZfXeBcX9DSHpsRajytSIKDiJcA/s1600/100_1470.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPeom3EItOAj1kuO_rpvrv_uD_XKFgaMN8pZogGpGLBweeNDg1sBVwbgAfRL-HUHjjnVCtyNPBx9zxMp32wDtJBJY2dwxpnsW6uW0ntbZq6l6eQ8fNUZfXeBcX9DSHpsRajytSIKDiJcA/s400/100_1470.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552061977064818290" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I was sorry to have missed Purisima in Nicaragua, the national day for celebrating the Immaculate Conception of Mary. <span style=""> </span>I spent that day in Cleveland having my personal interview with a member oaf our visiting Vatican- appointed team.<span style=""> </span>All went well, as far as I could determine.<span style=""> </span>It was so good to be with my sisters at our center where I’m pretty well known as the ‘cow lady’ and/or the ‘chicken lady’.<span style=""> </span>This year the Leadership Team of the congregation is sponsoring four sets of five chickens plus one rooster as their Christmas gift to benefactors and co-ministers.<span style=""> </span>For the last two years it’s been cows.<span style=""> </span>Diversity is good!<span style=""> </span>I have been a member of this ‘greatest community ever’ for the past 54+ years and it’s always gift to be able to spend time with my sisters.<span style=""> </span>I just missed their lovely snowfall of 12-14 inches.<span style=""> </span>On the west side of the city, we only had 4 inches.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I’m getting ready to betake myself to St. Louis where I’ll spend Christmas with the other half <span style=""> </span>of my family having spent Thanksgiving with the Michigan family. When I return I’ll head to Cleveland for a week of silent retreat.<span style=""> </span>Oh, I do look forward to that time each year.<span style=""> </span>Then it will be time to head to Chicago and on to Managua.<span style=""> </span>I should land back in the land of lakes and volcanos <span style=""> </span>on the night of the 19<sup>th</sup> if all goes according to plan.<span style=""> </span>However, I’ve enough experience under my belt to be open to whatever comes my way.<span style=""> </span>Will blog again when I’m back in Nica land.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">The translation<span style=""> </span>of the Christmas greeting which is from all of us at Cantera is:</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color:red;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">“Let us sing to peace and solidarity among peoples.</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Let us sing to the women, men, girls, boys and </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">youth who are building a new world. ----</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Constructing dreams and utopias.”</span><span style=""> </span></span><span style="">(Cantera’s vision)</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Blessings to each of you for a peace-filled and joy-filled Christmas Season and for a 2011 bringing<span style=""> </span>us closer in love, compassion,<span style=""> </span>solidarity and peace with each other, wherever we are in this world.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Love and Gratitude from your sister, Jeanne.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-55055732668499380392010-11-07T14:11:00.005-06:002010-11-08T14:50:47.032-06:00Wood Hath Hope<style>@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1;</style><span style="">Managua, Nicaragua</span> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">November 3, 2010</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">St. Martin de Porres of Lima, Peru – Patron Saint of the Poor</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdVJNwfgOhjrrKd1uEh9Om5cNiuJRuniLtEoARCRnL475sUuDeZd5ffOPKVnzwxVit90WqBZsQWVuVn3Rdm6vphnKbQUu_BxjL8gaHiQf8KDT5ZNRFFGltk0_TfLnPMLvDFC-m1laB7nU/s1600/087.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdVJNwfgOhjrrKd1uEh9Om5cNiuJRuniLtEoARCRnL475sUuDeZd5ffOPKVnzwxVit90WqBZsQWVuVn3Rdm6vphnKbQUu_BxjL8gaHiQf8KDT5ZNRFFGltk0_TfLnPMLvDFC-m1laB7nU/s400/087.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536904161854949378" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style=""><span style=""> </span></i></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">“Wood hath hope. If it’s cut, it grows green again and its boughs sprout clean again.<span style=""> </span>Wood hath hope.”</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuHdelsSohXRtGOvPha5TrUKtx311Li0mxF15AnpF-1N0bYoiix3DgMp8b75vPorAJASV38YvVLnR2zJlCrUdfZmZh7gbahh6JcULzXJwCqN3zYBfwexAx6m9zTp1KhSuXtm0ndu3iamT/s1600/102.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuHdelsSohXRtGOvPha5TrUKtx311Li0mxF15AnpF-1N0bYoiix3DgMp8b75vPorAJASV38YvVLnR2zJlCrUdfZmZh7gbahh6JcULzXJwCqN3zYBfwexAx6m9zTp1KhSuXtm0ndu3iamT/s400/102.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536904168097077394" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Do you remember this song by the St. Louis Jesuits from a FEW years back?<span style=""> </span>I do!<span style=""> </span>I’m reminded of it every time I see a fence post here in Nicaragua that refuses to be just a dead piece of wood supporting fence wire and instead breaks into life again!<span style=""> </span>It speaks to me of HOPE in the midst of too many indications to the contrary.<span style=""> </span>The Spanish word for hope, <i style="">esperanza, </i>sounds like what it signifies -<span style=""> </span>a breath of air, uplifting, promising. I’ve taken some photos of these ‘dead’ pieces of wood that are ‘sprouting clean and growing green again’.<span style=""> </span>One of these was taken in the campo and the other in our neighborhood.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ILSyPfHQX-9muZPWdrKQSwECuMATiHWJRW7ycNZUDlUuIwxfY_6wJGCa3khcZVK8xiFYZLaf6BRVaecw3xgoxgcPKJvvEl3SLh-ztJWdom-IrWLQlXhuAMAzmDku3tESbfk2s8ahM9zM/s1600/101.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ILSyPfHQX-9muZPWdrKQSwECuMATiHWJRW7ycNZUDlUuIwxfY_6wJGCa3khcZVK8xiFYZLaf6BRVaecw3xgoxgcPKJvvEl3SLh-ztJWdom-IrWLQlXhuAMAzmDku3tESbfk2s8ahM9zM/s400/101.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536904164578398946" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style=""></span>The beautiful field of green is the second crop of beans that have now made their way to the fresh air and are growing rapidly.<span style=""> </span>I’ve been informed that here it takes 50 days for a bean seed to mature – from sowing to harvesting.<span style=""> </span>This field to me is a sign of <i style="">esperanza</i>. Thanks go to my congregation for helping our farmers replant after losing a large part of their first planting due to exceedingly heavy rains.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMJjGSKI1XLcm8kTVO4NSwc-ZvUPbTn1g8ZdyBMStBhwx3EU8UlGyR-h6bF0KXbFgB8jy1YtZ84Ugf6TmTmCSh7J1QJYKjnYM-AEHjcvQCyulxEYW0hLjDsAcZfa8hTmu-4cU0Nb3TAXS/s1600/100.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMJjGSKI1XLcm8kTVO4NSwc-ZvUPbTn1g8ZdyBMStBhwx3EU8UlGyR-h6bF0KXbFgB8jy1YtZ84Ugf6TmTmCSh7J1QJYKjnYM-AEHjcvQCyulxEYW0hLjDsAcZfa8hTmu-4cU0Nb3TAXS/s400/100.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537282977861607810" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">My little brothers and sister who live high up in the hills are also signs of <i style="">esperanza.</i><span style=""> </span>I was having dinner in Las Lajas at the home of the beautiful little girl and her family, when I looked up and saw her looking at me through the flowers and vines.<span style=""> </span>I asked her to ‘please stay put’ while I grabbed my camera and graciously, she did.<span style=""> </span>The boys are brothers on their way home from school in Las Latas and were only too happy to pose before hiking off on their long walk back to their humble home.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbNYyvbu1KHxFgx065mf70Sv__n3pxpjTgizEWScB4zmgS2qSVGbgtyYuxx_bvqGCqvBoEq6-n2IFqijCxZxBgU6zNOtq2veoWLvoZuYgywYqTbnmTeZTvl4YVX_xlQp9jlfKhX8dDTon7/s1600/082.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbNYyvbu1KHxFgx065mf70Sv__n3pxpjTgizEWScB4zmgS2qSVGbgtyYuxx_bvqGCqvBoEq6-n2IFqijCxZxBgU6zNOtq2veoWLvoZuYgywYqTbnmTeZTvl4YVX_xlQp9jlfKhX8dDTon7/s400/082.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537282984511457682" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">This is probably be my last posting until I return to Nicaragua toward the end of January.<span style=""> </span>I will leave for the States just before Thankgiving so I can see both my families (Rob’s and Rich’s) over the holidays.<span style=""> </span>I look forward to seeing many of you during the time I’ll be home.<span style=""> </span>As for the rest of you faithful followers, I’ll be thinking of you and sending you lots of love, peace and HOPE.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNSW15Vi-EimHV5XCXYlJndY9PGkGYFrIOFNETgleKLurTZqL5T5GUy1PDcSeo0ivDQa2GgRvbAH8eoYu2mSuvolr3cB4g1Iox3HRSxP70nPMc2r3nEk35QA3LpMkSyBYHXhtNh7lSiyz/s1600/083.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNSW15Vi-EimHV5XCXYlJndY9PGkGYFrIOFNETgleKLurTZqL5T5GUy1PDcSeo0ivDQa2GgRvbAH8eoYu2mSuvolr3cB4g1Iox3HRSxP70nPMc2r3nEk35QA3LpMkSyBYHXhtNh7lSiyz/s400/083.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536904147447367794" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBP6QgBUa-mlvO7x8M2htNIzZbMco35auwIkdqlIga-UY8pxNs9hpcXuxmanJNxon6Jso3_m76dJ8mV3Bw8mR0eSpOf7f4UVmA_NynGAJaUaZa1eqWlQk9HWarZwm7xb97IL9Y13aO85W/s1600/084.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBP6QgBUa-mlvO7x8M2htNIzZbMco35auwIkdqlIga-UY8pxNs9hpcXuxmanJNxon6Jso3_m76dJ8mV3Bw8mR0eSpOf7f4UVmA_NynGAJaUaZa1eqWlQk9HWarZwm7xb97IL9Y13aO85W/s400/084.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536904152574061186" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">As we approach Advent, Navidad and New Years, I thought ‘hope’ would be an appropriate topic.<span style=""> </span>I trust that you’re conscious of many hopeful aspects in your own life and journey.<span style=""> </span>Each of you is a sign of hope for me and I thank you for that.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Peace, Love, Hope,</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Jeanne<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >eta: photos of the children</span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-17037888453035217662010-10-22T23:23:00.003-05:002010-10-22T23:32:57.819-05:00Life Given and Life Destroyed<style>@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:8pt;"> </span></p><span style=""></span><span style=""><span style=""> </span></span> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><span style=""></span></p> <span style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Here I am again!</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Your responses make me a little more responsible about posting blogs more frequently.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Thanks for the comments and encouragement.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">I enjoy sharing with you some of my experiences here in Nicaragua with the hope that it helps you feel more connected to your sisters and brothers who have and live a life that is just as valuable as each of ours but that for the grand majority is a life that has not had the opportunities that many/most of us have enjoyed.</span><span style=""> </span></span><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">One of the opportunities I have each weekend is visiting two of our government hospitals…one a hospital for mothers giving birth and for women with gynecological problems and cancer patients.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">The other is a physical rehab hospital.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">One part of Aldo Chavarrhia, the physical rehab hospital, is for those who have lost arms and/or legs through accidents or <b style=""><i style="">land mines.<span style=""> </span></i></b>I’ve often reflected on this after I meet and visit with these folks.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">The majority of those who come to Managua to be fitted for a prosthesis or to have an existing prosthesis refitted or replaced come from the northern departments where the war years (1984 – 1990) took place</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">They have stepped on a buried land mine which is still able to be activated and have had limbs blown off. </span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">The maps which tell where these mines were originally placed are not useful because with the torrential rains we experience and especially with the devastation of Hurricane Mitch in 1998, the mines have ‘moved on’.</span><span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style=""></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgViFkXaHV4e0iuycYTZGxXjm49CL5AJ68FkZQK9LoHkcbH-GWV7tBHvsm-2EQp7kBUCYpvb-Mwf8rJy05cgM1VsvXBY55bIizcvXZZNrhF0UPnLLMPXBDD3Z6I42vRc-ucsukiJ5xAoooE/s1600/Picture3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgViFkXaHV4e0iuycYTZGxXjm49CL5AJ68FkZQK9LoHkcbH-GWV7tBHvsm-2EQp7kBUCYpvb-Mwf8rJy05cgM1VsvXBY55bIizcvXZZNrhF0UPnLLMPXBDD3Z6I42vRc-ucsukiJ5xAoooE/s400/Picture3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531093012124641938" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" >The terrain in the north is very hilly and so the mechanisms have moved easily and far.<span style=""> </span>One man told me that “not even God knows where they are!”<span style=""> </span>Land mines have been outlawed by many nations as a weapon.<span style=""> </span>However, the United States and a few other countries have yet to sign the treaty which would prohibit the use of such devasting devices <span style=""> </span>which end up harming people young and old, for many years during and after the war officially ends.<span style=""> </span>I suspect that the grand majority of our folks who have lost limbs through land mines or accidents do not have the advantage of a prosthesis. They hobble through the streets on crutches or in wheelchairs begging for a living, hoping for generosity, understanding and compassion from their sisters and brothers.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><span style=""></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmGTrmZ09fEd8560VVoHAlwNnX1u5jc5gQiAc3ae6AOXujP8vBu8gwOWIQ2FfAMF4xZD_XufjF_WdYpZ-RWqPc2en1efYr3cJ6aIb22mMwhYnuJUZpqwTCY5j6nbzOORhHJYhYq0Xz6l1/s1600/Picture2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmGTrmZ09fEd8560VVoHAlwNnX1u5jc5gQiAc3ae6AOXujP8vBu8gwOWIQ2FfAMF4xZD_XufjF_WdYpZ-RWqPc2en1efYr3cJ6aIb22mMwhYnuJUZpqwTCY5j6nbzOORhHJYhYq0Xz6l1/s400/Picture2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531093008298628306" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" >I have not been to the ‘higher hills’ since that adventurous trip I wrote about the last time…the lower ones, yes.<span style=""> </span>I have been to Los Planes which can be reached by a variety of vehicles and which is is arrived at, over less difficult, but still challenging, roads.<span style=""> </span>Kari and I go to this area every two weeks and meet with a group of incredible women who range in age from younger to ‘more mature’.<span style=""> </span>I’ve been meeting with them for a couple of years now.<span style=""> </span>We chat and enjoy each other, but the main reason for gathering is to study aspects of the Bible and to take time to reflect on Scripture and share that reflection.<span style=""> </span>The wisdom, faith and richness of their lives is the gift that is shared. These gatherings give me</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">life and I look forward to them, even though it’s a bit of a challenge to go and come.</span><span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><span style=""></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style=""></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_liBHyV9uYaXo5VE9Fc68XyqYUu1hmi52EFBBYtYhhyphenhyphenQ7YFdQuwwQVag8QaRc-vxcDYhkD3JLyDuCjccXXzImW0HQ6l97VV3BfowXfnPW8iV-WKjbRtUT_qfG4p0oKbQL7Z2RqjqGX1_p/s1600/Picture1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_liBHyV9uYaXo5VE9Fc68XyqYUu1hmi52EFBBYtYhhyphenhyphenQ7YFdQuwwQVag8QaRc-vxcDYhkD3JLyDuCjccXXzImW0HQ6l97VV3BfowXfnPW8iV-WKjbRtUT_qfG4p0oKbQL7Z2RqjqGX1_p/s400/Picture1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531093005716889714" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><span style=""></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Once I get into the ‘campo’ (farmland) area I experience a particular peace and calm.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">It’s mostly quiet there except for animal ‘voices’.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">The foliage is lush, colorful, thick and green and birds and butterflies are everywhere!</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">It’s a simple, basic lifestyle that’s lived there and the beauty of creation leads one to prayer very easily.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">So each Wednesday evening I thank God for the presence in my life of Dominga, Paula, Maria Elena, Amalia, Evangelina, Yoma, Migdonia, Leah and others that come when they’re able.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">They teach me a great deal about life and God and relationship.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">They are gift!</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Who are the gifts in your life who enliven you?</span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" >You are gift!<span style=""> </span>Thank you for your love, support, prayers, donations and interest in this country located in the ‘heart’ of Central America.<span style=""> </span>Your Nicaraguan sisters and brothers … and this sister…are grateful.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Until the next ‘posting’ … </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Love and gratitude,<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Jeanne</span></p> <p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-80924582070342525902010-10-07T19:22:00.003-05:002010-10-07T19:40:12.372-05:00Nearer My God to Thee…<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-N2RuuWcEzkj6f2VfKkqMEDtcH6AhizvVq-sOBl2Du3whToF9nuXAcmV31RnMDA9gVHsYB0T_ef7P4VmYtvlnEX0HASHtTh9bC1x8_Pqj0RZS09uwWKokR04lSYoEykRSuTnP7hNLdBi/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-N2RuuWcEzkj6f2VfKkqMEDtcH6AhizvVq-sOBl2Du3whToF9nuXAcmV31RnMDA9gVHsYB0T_ef7P4VmYtvlnEX0HASHtTh9bC1x8_Pqj0RZS09uwWKokR04lSYoEykRSuTnP7hNLdBi/s400/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525465335537511602" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Managua, Nicaragua</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">October 7, 2010</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">Hello, my ‘followers’,</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><br /><span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">It occurs to me that perhaps some of you might wonder about the You Tube connect to “Gabriel’s Oboe” from <i style="">The Mission </i>that appears at the top of my blog space<i style="">.</i><span style=""> </span>This has been on the blog site since pretty<span style=""> </span>much the beginning when my friend, Ruth, realized how much I enjoyed that piece of music.<span style=""> </span>She put it there so I can listen to it whenever I wish.<span style=""> </span>The movie and book, <i style="">The Mission, </i><span style=""> </span>both in English and Spanish have been favorites of mine for years.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH5LgFQrDfzdHBsjwwl2JYRrrlxeXqmj9tY-kIg3YGXcbEjaPcdQt1ywMMkykPaI1XP4HRSha2RY0yWaD-SjmEAgXjklNwU-9EnV98E_Jlf3ghR_-cPbrx5zsZ-Iw3HD7HsWPQonrWB-Xz/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH5LgFQrDfzdHBsjwwl2JYRrrlxeXqmj9tY-kIg3YGXcbEjaPcdQt1ywMMkykPaI1XP4HRSha2RY0yWaD-SjmEAgXjklNwU-9EnV98E_Jlf3ghR_-cPbrx5zsZ-Iw3HD7HsWPQonrWB-Xz/s400/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525465325957624802" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Normally, my blog mistress puts a title on my postings.<span style=""> </span>However, I decided on the title for this one! Today I’ll<span style=""> </span>share with you our last experience of determination to get to the various rural settings in spite of the conditions.<span style=""> </span>I think we’ve reached a new aspect of reality and Claudio, my co-worker and the driver of our trusty yellow 4-wheel drive pickup, has finally admitted that there are limits!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsTv0_wM7nrHLOZbSooLv0HHn0nIEYNYA0PDG931GJY-OLwG0xPePO_AkBhjEnl04iHGpjcd54UK1QljiWU3Tg2218vTzTZbkEO3gxrN_8Q_d0S00RyV0GhD3_joxGF0UqsKzD-4DyS-M/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsTv0_wM7nrHLOZbSooLv0HHn0nIEYNYA0PDG931GJY-OLwG0xPePO_AkBhjEnl04iHGpjcd54UK1QljiWU3Tg2218vTzTZbkEO3gxrN_8Q_d0S00RyV0GhD3_joxGF0UqsKzD-4DyS-M/s400/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525465317984022818" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">One day we went to an area called Masatepe to negotiate for 6 quintales (600 pounds) of frijoles (beans) so that our farmers could replant. The fervent hope is to be able to make up for the crop lost to the intensive rains. We had a long but delightful day, finally accomplishing the task.<span style=""> </span>Of course, there was waiting involved because the only person who could give us a valid receipt was in Ticuantepe which was 45 minutes away.<span style=""> </span>We did a little paseo (pleasure trip) to the town and enjoyed some new sites.<span style=""> </span>We also went to San Marcos, and among other things, saw Tom Monaghan’s Ave Maria University.<span style=""> </span>No comment.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZRGm_aFwlrXs-fpasix1IwK9xGDdPrKbvUBWRnyKpfSUXd5dR5bGJVwVhiNXf6bOOcY1Sb5hyjiZnHrk7DVEAXrzY5c62-bCW_poq1BEoWP1PQFS1voYA_wnRoL8HhaQ4obkh4Z1lLgs/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZRGm_aFwlrXs-fpasix1IwK9xGDdPrKbvUBWRnyKpfSUXd5dR5bGJVwVhiNXf6bOOcY1Sb5hyjiZnHrk7DVEAXrzY5c62-bCW_poq1BEoWP1PQFS1voYA_wnRoL8HhaQ4obkh4Z1lLgs/s400/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525465324367400114" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">The next day we set off for 5 of the rural areas with the intention of delivering the 100 pound bags of seeds -<span style=""> </span>one quintal had been dropped off the day prior at a closer area. The frijoles were well protected with meters of heavy black plastic…inevitable rain, you know!<span style=""> </span>We started off and were able to get to Los Filos, Las Yucas, Las Latas-Lajas, La Ceiba and ULTIMATELY Las Parcelas!<span style=""> </span>It was a trip never to be forgotten.<span style=""> </span>I don’t know how many times Claudio stopped the truck, got out and spent several minutes trying to find a ‘possible place’ to get from ‘where we were’ to ‘where we needed to go’ without falling into one of several trenches and/or sliding off the edge of wherever!<span style=""> </span>At one point earlier in the ‘adventure’, we met a larger truck than ours loaded with corn. Now, this is a one-vehicle-only type of trail that sits in between high banks of earth.<span style=""> </span>These caminos have </span><span style="">been ‘carved out’ by the rains over the years. There was definitely no way to back up and/or turn around.<span style=""> </span>The fellows from the other truck “guided” us up on the side of the road which put us on about a 45 degree angle with himself on the ‘other truck’ side and myself on the ‘up’ side hanging onto the hand grip above my seat.<span style=""> </span>I have no idea why it worked without some mishap…but it did.<span style=""> </span>Claudio didn’t know how it worked either, but after the “passing” both trucks were upright and we were warm (as in sweating) and breathing!<span style=""> </span>I think it was divine intervention! He had suggested previously that I pray to all the angeles y santos (male saints!!).<span style=""> </span>I informed him that the “santas” (not as in Santa Claus!!) were more likely to be of help and more focused!<span style=""> </span>He did not argue with me!<span style=""> </span>Claudio is diabetic and we hadn’t brought anything to eat and it was well past ‘feeding’ time! Next time I’ll make sure we have food.<span style=""> </span>He’s been doing this for 9 years and is a good driver and so I was</span><span style=""> anxious but not having a panic attack.<span style=""> </span>However, I did not want to spend the night in mud up to my knees!<span style=""> </span>We did manage – with a lot of help from above, I’m sure – to eventually get back down to the main road.<span style=""> </span>Claudio admitted afterward that he was frightened.<span style=""> </span>“It was the worst I’ve ever seen it”, said he!<span style=""> </span>It was a fairly silent trip from La Ceiba to Las Parcelas.<span style=""> </span>Needless to say, there were many prayers of gratitude sent up that evening.<span style=""> </span>I checked to make sure the following day that Claudio said his, too!!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIDMwQqn4RyjaBe54zh5pkHNZdIUUqr-wBrJHB79Yd1P-mAPw6AUceHxHWwgbfIQdt3EDwgR-tLzGEVdhOCnSl3iHs2akMACj1-ripOQSVHWE4vcTclPgK-qt5fNMR6Iifz0EICOmYpEY/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIDMwQqn4RyjaBe54zh5pkHNZdIUUqr-wBrJHB79Yd1P-mAPw6AUceHxHWwgbfIQdt3EDwgR-tLzGEVdhOCnSl3iHs2akMACj1-ripOQSVHWE4vcTclPgK-qt5fNMR6Iifz0EICOmYpEY/s400/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525465340143189474" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I do enjoy a challenge and have an adventuresome bone in my body, but I can do without a repeat of that particular experience.<span style=""> </span>Claudio has not wanted to venture forth until the rains subside.<span style=""> </span>He’s looking at next Wednesday.<span style=""> </span>I’ll write an update afterward. I’m also making a list of aprendizajes (learnings)<span style=""> </span>that have evolved from this experience. What adventure have you had lately and what did you learn from it?</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /><span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Take care, my friends.<span style=""> </span>Thanks for ‘following’ and to some of you for sending comments.<span style=""> </span>Your love and support are greatly appreciated.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /><span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Your sister,</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Jeanne</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; font-style: italic;"><span style="">A note on the photos:</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: italic;">One of them is loading the sacks of beans, another is a delivery at Las Yucas, "Hector" is my little friend on the tire, the oxen are the most secure transport system in the rural area and the rural "kitchen" is just that...how cooking is done there. The "loading" took place in Masatepe and the other photos were all taken at Las Yucas while we were delivering one quintal. That was before the going became very nearly IMPOSSIBLE.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><br /></span></p>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-34684502594848736242010-09-25T10:14:00.003-05:002010-09-25T10:29:05.437-05:00Too much and too little<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMm0Cc12DuAz8i7FXHen5jrKGFTdYbp0UQEWDd20mZktpCgv6B1JaleMX-d_xn-l4WeeOlOVscKl-FfDnghtBTTyqPjrZOjpyAlUq87vyr41658wXOI0cTry6fMOjbnBbw6hasTwlioyK/s1600/024.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMm0Cc12DuAz8i7FXHen5jrKGFTdYbp0UQEWDd20mZktpCgv6B1JaleMX-d_xn-l4WeeOlOVscKl-FfDnghtBTTyqPjrZOjpyAlUq87vyr41658wXOI0cTry6fMOjbnBbw6hasTwlioyK/s400/024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520870383644202226" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Reporting in from Central America! Does anyone want some moisture? Are you too dry? We’d be more than happy to send some your way! ‘Tis the rainy season and like so many other areas of our planet, the weather system seems to be ‘disturbed’. According to the Nica folks, this year beats them all for the amount and intensity of the rains. Many areas are suffering greatly from loss of homes and their meager material goods due to flooding. The bean crop in particular is suffering from too much rain causing the rotting of seeds and the washing away of cultivated plants. Our CSJ Leadership Team sent emergency funds which have enabled us to help out. In the Mateare-Ciudad Sandino rural areas we have been able, through the use of these funds, to purchase 7 quintales (100 pounds per quintal) of frejoles rojos (red beans) for each of our comarcas (areas). These will be planted and prayed over with the hope that this second planting will survive and bear a normal crop.<br /><br />On Saturday Kari and I were returning from visiting women cancer patients at the government hospital and we stopped to have an Eskimo Pie. Are you old enough to remember the white carts with jangling bells that tempted kids and irritated moms that would work their way up and down the streets during the summer? Well, we have the very same thing here but they’re called Es-KEEE-moe (accent on second syllable!). They also have these in grocery stores. We stopped at one such called La Colonia and that’s where I began to think about paradoxes. Our eyes lit up when we saw asparagus! And….then they lost their light when we noted the price…$10.00 per pound! And in another aisle we got excited seeing Multigrain Cheerios which are a favorite of mine. A medium sized box was ONLY $15.00!! Obviously, both items were imported. Then I thought, “..there are folks here who wouldn’t bat an eye at paying those prices while at the same time the majority of our people are scrounging to put beans and rice on the table.” Yes, life at most levels is indeed a paradox and this one is, over abundance in the midst of abject poverty. It was a stark aspect of reality. The other paradox that struck me is that we have all this water which is causing so much damage and even death and yet we lack water for daily life in many of our areas, especially the rural sections.<br /><br />Now to close with a bit of joy and beauty. Our richness here is in the people. The Nicaraguan folks are beautiful and a gift to me. The other gift is another aspect of creation and that’s in the abundance of flora and fauna … during the rainy season. Early the other morning I was sitting in a rocker in our small patio in which my “hermitage” exists, eating my peanut butter toast and drinking my coffee . I noticed <a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Blue_Morpho_butterfly_01.jpg">a brand new butterfly</a> on the wall who was drying her wings … she stayed with me for quite a while. Then one of our ‘mascots’, a little gecko, entertained me for some time…all of this in the midst of our lemon tree which is giving us MANY lemons this year and a multitude of very green plants and flowers…. I had a great conversation with our loving Creator and was thinking…wouldn’t it be great if a picaflor/colibri (a.k.a. hummingbird) would come for breakfast on our yellow cameron plant and our rose-colored hibiscus which had birthed five blossoms earlier this a.m.! And don’t you know….she flew right in and stayed for some time, eating and hovering, in the midst of the rest of the beauty. I wanted to share this with you because sometimes I miss the beauty that’s around me because of the many worrisome, upsetting matters that are part of daily life. Does that happen in your daily life, too? What beauty was/will be gift for you today?<br /><br />Thanks for connecting, being interested and supportive!<br />Your Nicaraguan sister,<br />JeanneJeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-53514157497702658732010-08-26T21:56:00.007-05:002010-08-26T22:17:17.174-05:00Eye see<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQeX481UCuynBZIW3tLVBehkvB8pZ7xBHNPVglDHFKO8RGHqrvYnkGZ8sk0hDhea6RZdlS3LlnDeN2sC15xv2sV_yI_2xLbQO06mIFnuVSkcKcMNLKQRIaUf7i3rgs_huQUsnJd1ucxPY/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQeX481UCuynBZIW3tLVBehkvB8pZ7xBHNPVglDHFKO8RGHqrvYnkGZ8sk0hDhea6RZdlS3LlnDeN2sC15xv2sV_yI_2xLbQO06mIFnuVSkcKcMNLKQRIaUf7i3rgs_huQUsnJd1ucxPY/s400/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509921332137313634" border="0" /></a>I see the promise of tomorrow in a rural classroom<br /></div><br />I’m back in Nicaragua after three quick but wonderful weeks enjoying times of celebration – our Jubilees of 50, 60 and 75 years of life as Sisters of St. Joseph.<span style=""> </span><span style="">Being with Marie and the other Jubilarians and reliving my own golden jubilee in 2006 was a great joy.<span style=""> </span></span><span lang="ES-NI">Call, response, community, ministry, service, growth, love and much more are indeed aspects of life to be celebrated.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="">And celebrate we did!! <span style=""> </span>Soon we will celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Dianne.<span style=""> </span>Dianne has been in this area of Latin America 16 years and before that spent 8 years in Bolivia…around the time I was in Peru….as well as shorter stretches in Panama, Guatemala and Mexico.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I also had visits and other fun times while home.<span style=""> </span></span><span lang="ES-NI">I felt as though I had dragged the constant rains and humidity with me from Nicaragua but tried not to be paranoid about it.<span style=""> </span>After a few days we had hot but enjoyable weather and outdoor times were lots of fun.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="ES-NI"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="ES-NI" style="font-size:8pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">I returned on the 9th and encountered very interesting folks along the way.<span style=""> </span></span><span lang="ES-NI">I was surprised to find out that I had been ‘upgraded’ to First Class because they tried to pack too many people in Economy Class.<span style=""> </span>They told me it was because I had Sky Miles with Delta…but I think it was my age…in spite of very few gray hairs!!<span style=""> </span>Who knows…it was great having space and a meal and drinks and attention!!<span style=""> </span>Delta does not have a light meal as does Continental in the ‘rear’!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkhn1CYnl30_SuSWe1lasclzUxB0bsqKm3Kmy3RRhIbmsqxUUL7tSaSddbV7Qhy1Wd0WRoZP6TUj-pQ0KYZeTjMF-AGRqs-JvF_ookkUqQft-UT_juuI7nvodlwWCeR_1-x54ERzeXgLc/s1600/037.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkhn1CYnl30_SuSWe1lasclzUxB0bsqKm3Kmy3RRhIbmsqxUUL7tSaSddbV7Qhy1Wd0WRoZP6TUj-pQ0KYZeTjMF-AGRqs-JvF_ookkUqQft-UT_juuI7nvodlwWCeR_1-x54ERzeXgLc/s400/037.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509921029866990434" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="ES-NI">Claudio and the trusty pickup truck.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="ES-NI"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="ES-NI" style="font-size:8pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">As always there have been some changes here, even in three weeks time.<span style=""> </span></span><span lang="ES-NI">So, I’m catching up.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="">I’ve gone to the ‘campo’ four times this past week with Vero, Claudio and one of those times we had a visitor from Atlanta whom we took to La Ceiba for a workshop on gender.<span style=""> </span></span><span lang="ES-NI">It was a full day and Maggie <span style=""> </span>was a good sport and didn’t whine about the strenuousness of the trip with the lurching, jolting, sliding, etc. of our trusty yellow pickup truck.<span style=""> </span>I took some school supplies to the most isolated areas.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="">I was able to purchase them at very, very low prices while in the States.<span style=""> </span>Our visitors had also brought such down, so we had some nice packages to deliver. </span><span lang="ES-NI">Hopefully, the crayons didn’t melt or the chalk break before they arrived at their final destination.<span style=""> </span>The rural schools are equipped with one room of four walls, a roof, some desks or benches, an antiquated chalkboard and <span style=""> </span>precious little more.<span style=""> </span>So, any item is greatly appreciated … the boxes contained crayons, chalk, a few rulers, scissors, pencils and a pack of markers.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="">The teachers were delighted as will be the children.<span style=""> </span>It takes very little to bring joy!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Next Sunday Kari and I will go to Los Planes de Cuajachillo 2 to participate in the annual celebration of the parish in that sector.<span style=""> </span></span><span lang="ES-NI">We celebrate “Nuestra Senora de Nancite” (Our Lady of Nancite).<span style=""> </span>Nancite is a fruit that is in season right now.<span style=""> </span>Actually, it’s one of my least favorite fruits but I will be well behaved and eat some next Sunday!<span style=""> </span>I did a blog a couple of years ago on the procession that precedes the Mass.<span style=""> </span>We pray for NO RAIN during the procession.<span style=""> </span>It’s a long walk….longer still if you’re drenched.<span style=""> </span>I enjoy the people and their devotion and dedication and feel privileged to be a part of their cultural expression of a long tradition for them.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="ES-NI"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbc0Z6UGWRlpUbagtIAOSmqUoZHH3Rjs_1QZQh1DVrRXtHQQP5IBaTip9oB30lhubJ_-MX428E8HtzX9LmFXECBwAbSCBvQrEqvpEwFMCaIc5vhbw7mL8aBdWmCzUJ_x_cOHHSwPqslKFx/s1600/081.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbc0Z6UGWRlpUbagtIAOSmqUoZHH3Rjs_1QZQh1DVrRXtHQQP5IBaTip9oB30lhubJ_-MX428E8HtzX9LmFXECBwAbSCBvQrEqvpEwFMCaIc5vhbw7mL8aBdWmCzUJ_x_cOHHSwPqslKFx/s400/081.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509920822752868034" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">Students hard at work.<br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="ES-NI"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="ES-NI" style="font-size:8pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">August 24, 2010<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Today started out with the joyful announcement that the young man with the cart that ‘carts off’ branches and leaves that result from trimming the trees, was at the door.<span style=""> </span>Then I left for the office….I thought I’d learned the lesson of paying attention to the numbers on the buses…but you know how much an 8 can look like a 0???<span style=""> </span>I thought I was getting on a 110 but as I was chatting with the woman next to me, she said she worked at the Oriental Market…and then when I sensed that the bus was going to turn onto a ‘wrong’ street….I asked her what route we were on and she said, “118”! Well, needless to say, I got off shortly, walked a few blocks and got onto a bus that would take me where I intended to go!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">How did your day start today?<span style=""> </span>And, what have you relearned??<span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style=""> </span>Love and support,<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Jeanne<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-77736118584945529792010-07-09T08:36:00.002-05:002010-07-09T08:56:57.705-05:00Food for thought...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdptv2X0cK1eeq1sgQQGf-B1DLQbzQ4NMcTPlkShwCRR_5qXr3jOz6n9x34tMusb1PA8L6RrvRF3SoBUxprsThjIUAnlCAI7nFN8vpgx-fOpUAgsGQkJ2POfA_IyNO5fY_zhYiAMwfaEa/s1600/210.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdptv2X0cK1eeq1sgQQGf-B1DLQbzQ4NMcTPlkShwCRR_5qXr3jOz6n9x34tMusb1PA8L6RrvRF3SoBUxprsThjIUAnlCAI7nFN8vpgx-fOpUAgsGQkJ2POfA_IyNO5fY_zhYiAMwfaEa/s400/210.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491902232780183186" border="0" /></a><br /><br />“Managua, Nicaragua, is a wonderful spot!<o:p></o:p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">Coffee and bananas and a temperature HOT!”</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style="">Are you old enough to remember this song??<span style=""> </span>I am!!<span style=""> </span>And it’s TRUE!<span style=""> </span>However, they forgot to include beans and rice!</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p>I thought I’d drop a note to you before I travel north for three weeks (July 19 - August 9).<span style=""> </span>This way you won’t think I fell off the edge of the world for lack of communication.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">A few days ago it occurred to me to start noticing the things that make me smile.<span style=""> </span>There’s plenty here to ponder about, reflect on, feel sad about…but there are also many things about which to smile and feel happy! The thought came when two young fellows dressed as clowns got onto the bus and had the whole bus smiling and even laughing because of their repartee!<span style=""> </span>Now…I suspect some of what they were saying was a bit shady but it was lost on me!<span style=""> </span>At any rate the list began to grow and I so I share it with you.<span style=""> </span>It’s been a good exercise and maybe one you might want to engage in such a reflection in your ‘neck of the woods’.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">1.<span style=""> </span>Clowns hoping to earn money by hopping on buses or juggling in the middle of busy streets thus making folks smile and forget about their struggles and worries about how to survive another day.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">2.<span style=""> </span>Beautiful dark-eyed, dark-haired, many shades of “beige and brown – skinned” children.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0cR5xgl5Epj5ZnrO3fFyHQ-w9CC3yBWscfLCLrfmpU_Ixf2VBVUTBaC8RZzjnK9HoeB2eR2tGBs15BSKge6xWMoMqKMvP1p2PXaeSgMebezBuBLaEsB7HDc7w6X-N95jrZThkPIfFs9q/s1600/109.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0cR5xgl5Epj5ZnrO3fFyHQ-w9CC3yBWscfLCLrfmpU_Ixf2VBVUTBaC8RZzjnK9HoeB2eR2tGBs15BSKge6xWMoMqKMvP1p2PXaeSgMebezBuBLaEsB7HDc7w6X-N95jrZThkPIfFs9q/s400/109.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491902224877330338" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">3.<span style=""> </span>A 97 year old ‘abuelita’ who sat next to me on the bus this morning on my way to the office, clear as a bell, and delighted to know that I knew her ‘home base’ in the farmland of Los Filos de Cuajachillo.<span style=""> </span>Her response to my farewell of “Que Dios le bendiga!” (God bless you!) was a pat on my hand and a triple “Amen”.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">4.<span style=""> </span>A ‘picaflor’ (hummingbird) in our garden that lets me know she’s there by her high pitched music.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">5.<span style=""> </span>The beauty of the countryside during this rainy season….lush, overgrown, green life.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">6.<span style=""> </span>An unexpected breeze that brings a bit of relief from the heat and humidity.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">7. The incredible enthusiasm by everyone here over FIFA, the World Cup Soccer games.<span style=""> </span>Everywhere there’s a TV, it’s honed in on the games when they’re on.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">8.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Beautiful, very different flowers and fruits grown here.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">9.<span style=""> </span>Hearing the loud chirp of our house pets – little geckos.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">10.Seeing the small, white, wild orchids bloom on the lemon tree outside my window.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQPDOoDrVcQLBZ1IV2RLxbLtAcC2zMI7TRo7XN70qAV99WFI4hJ1KMl8o0nyc8vyBT72G5QWWTW7ctLZCL1JYJ7-CUgb0gMvWZ47gJoZmi9F2nzzGgm1IJ5WwWqJzZM0hCEUSv_aR1ITsr/s1600/065.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQPDOoDrVcQLBZ1IV2RLxbLtAcC2zMI7TRo7XN70qAV99WFI4hJ1KMl8o0nyc8vyBT72G5QWWTW7ctLZCL1JYJ7-CUgb0gMvWZ47gJoZmi9F2nzzGgm1IJ5WwWqJzZM0hCEUSv_aR1ITsr/s400/065.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491902206980315634" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">11.Hearing our neighborhood children laugh and play in front of our house.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">12.Being in the campo and seeing the guardabarrancos fly with the sun displaying their iridescent colors.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJRYljBvZJUojZzCXGjoZT2amIuFzVpD96mfAYlrGHiVfljZdCaDF_m_N4G65StZ-OkpSEnERFaGayBAyVkMRxAWRKuw0-W8wPhnPy-XHqAyg6y8YCZ2NsHKI-WsJcZ3y3p3t01p4qjEI/s1600/guardabarranco%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJRYljBvZJUojZzCXGjoZT2amIuFzVpD96mfAYlrGHiVfljZdCaDF_m_N4G65StZ-OkpSEnERFaGayBAyVkMRxAWRKuw0-W8wPhnPy-XHqAyg6y8YCZ2NsHKI-WsJcZ3y3p3t01p4qjEI/s400/guardabarranco%5B1%5D.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491902198848603938" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">13.Seeing friends’ names on my e-mail site on my computer!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">14.Knowing that you enjoy this blog!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">And….what makes you smile???<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Looking forward to seeing some of you SOON.<span style=""> </span>Thanks for you and all you are and do to make this world a better, more just place for all.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Love,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Jeanne<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-83684824040465919762010-06-14T11:29:00.003-05:002010-06-14T11:47:47.052-05:00New Beginnings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMz3kpOMgHXkO0NqXW04bGWA0qOKBH-56BQPzOtlFXSrGm2SWBJ7S1WfkN2TG5YeGBKkxhABukhI_XR0gnWCisIfkrvoKYsKoKVbnwJDVLnNN9BiaQ2YEqYUGitylx3fIuYWH1uOkmFerJ/s1600/20914146_22344a1bc2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMz3kpOMgHXkO0NqXW04bGWA0qOKBH-56BQPzOtlFXSrGm2SWBJ7S1WfkN2TG5YeGBKkxhABukhI_XR0gnWCisIfkrvoKYsKoKVbnwJDVLnNN9BiaQ2YEqYUGitylx3fIuYWH1uOkmFerJ/s400/20914146_22344a1bc2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482670234360427842" border="0" /></a><br /><br />(I’m sending some of the heat, humidity and rain along with this…just to share!)<br /><br />Greetings from the land of multitudinous mangos, flowering malinche trees and lots of lemons! All three of these marvels of nature are in great abundance right now.<br /><br />Today as I’m writing a grant proposal for a donation for small scholarships for some of our very poor, but very capable rural youth, I decided to do a ‘two-fer’. I’ll blog the application responses!! Aha! I’m getting smarter as I get older….or is it lazier??? I prefer to believe it’s the wisdom that comes with age.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Our Nazareth Association generously gives grants for worthy causes that advance learning and improvement. We consider our rural youth on both secondary and university levels to qualify as very worthy. Our country provides education up through the sixth grade. Many do not complete this requirement, but there are those who struggle to continue studying. For our rural youth, in order to complete junior and senior high, the majority must do so on Saturdays – cramming a week of work into one very long day. Their help is needed on the farm working along with their parents and there is no school anywhere near them. So off they trudge on foot, horse drawn cart or bike, and eventually buses, to get to their school. We help by alotting them money for transportation and food while away from home. However, recently the funds from various sources dried up and so I’m appealing to the Nazareth Association for $1,000.00 to support three university and eight secondary students for the next six months. We always dream of a better future but we also have to let folks know of the opportunity to assist with the dreams of our people. Our future lies in our more educated youth and so onward we trudge. Two of the university students are majoring in agronomy. We need youth to stay in the rural area, improving farming and animal husbandry methods. Hopefully, Daniel and Earling will eventually complete their studies and assist their communities as they move into a more productive future. Bayardo is a very gifted and wholesome young man who comes from great poverty but has had the opportunity to have a good basic education and has been awarded a scholarship to the UCA – University of Central America - founded and run by the Jesuits. These universities are top notch and provide excellent educational opportunities. It was at the UCA of El Salvador that the martyrdoms of the seven Jesuit priests, their cook and her daughter occurred.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">We have great hopes for Daniel, Earling and Bayardo!<br /></div></div><br /><br />This past Wednesday, Kari Pohl, csj arrived in Nicaragua to bless us with her presence and ministry. Kari is a Michigan woman from Westphalia, but due to circumstances beyond our control, met up with the Baden CSJs at University of Detroit Mercy, where she studied nursing. She ultimately entered the Baden (Pittsburgh) branch of the Sisters of St. Joseph. She’s a mere youth of 35 and brings life and energy, as young folks are wont to have – and we’re delighted! I’m sure you’ll hear more about Kari as I blog on in the future. Bienvenida Kari!<br /><br />Yesterday I went with Kari to the office of the Conference of Religious where we started the procedure for getting her residency papers processed. She’s off to a much better start than I was 2.5 years ago. Because of my lack of documentation and the ensuing stuggle which was absorbed by my Michigan based friends, Kari has come with almost everything in order. They did change a couple of requirements but they will be easily met. Anyway, by the time we disembarked from the bus, the ‘monsoon’ was just getting ‘het up’. We were thoroughly drenched, in spite of umbrellas (they really just serve as symbols!), and arrived at the house a mere two blocks from the bus stop TOTALLY DRENCHED – and I mean that literally. It’s the wind that makes the umbrellas ineffectual, since it drives the rain sideways! Anyway, she’s had her baptism and is now qualified to consider herself Nica!<br /><br />I could prattle on, but will not. Thanks for each of you and your interest in our sisters and brothers who lack what is needed for a dignified and healthy life, wherever you are, doing whatever you do in this regard.<br /><br />Love, your sister,<br />Jeanne<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Photo: Malinche tree courtesy Google Images</span></span>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-67300511214652638902010-05-25T13:03:00.003-05:002010-05-25T14:39:03.033-05:00Breakfast of Champions<span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:100%;" >Greetings once again from hot, steamy, teeming rain, tropical Managua.<span style=""> </span>The good news is that the rains have been coming more frequently so our farming folks can have hopes for a productive harvest.<span style=""> </span>Without this there is no recourse for the folks of the rural areas, so I gladly raise my umbrella and try to stay somewhat dry…usually not successfully.<span style=""> </span>However, there is no evidence of a ‘rain hat’!!<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlznxb8w1iBgcd-3MJ-DG3kThlqJwGnjk8ZNJFAx571BibA7MyyibSS4ynk6w5AHquYy3l-rwTs4FFZSPEz1amQV8K_d4t00A9lZf2PsalChwOr3GPthmn4G8kXkFbM4WWGmahvaFgR4B0/s1600/DSC02403.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlznxb8w1iBgcd-3MJ-DG3kThlqJwGnjk8ZNJFAx571BibA7MyyibSS4ynk6w5AHquYy3l-rwTs4FFZSPEz1amQV8K_d4t00A9lZf2PsalChwOr3GPthmn4G8kXkFbM4WWGmahvaFgR4B0/s400/DSC02403.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475293601265934290" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">Speaking of the rural territories, I spent yesterday in La Ceiba.<span style=""> </span>This is the furthest and highest area we visit. The day was designed for a workshop on Natural Medicine.<span style=""> </span>The women and a couple of fellows<span style=""> </span>had been collecting, pressing and drying various leaves that have medicinal value as homework following the previous workshop. Yesterday was devoted to attaching them to tag board by means of glue or sewing, naming them, <span style=""> </span>describing what they were used to cure or prevent and<span style=""> </span>instructions on how to prepare them.<span style=""> </span>After this was completed….some had as many as 23 specimens!….each sheet was placed in a plastic sheath together with a title page,, holes punched in each and then tied with yarn.<span style=""> </span>The project took time but was most successful and gratifying.<span style=""> </span>The participants now have a compendium of useful information with which to meet the medical needs of their families and neighbors.<span style=""> </span>Medicine is expensive and there are many natural items that have curative effects, cost nothing and also do not introduce chemicals into the body.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6RwjaFPOdWyDMaj3GPgnJizB6Xg0AmZTGErxHQm0gdPpKGfAr1ZvwtIxDRsX4hgdWSyuu5YgoaLaNWruIv-bqIKKxkLRkJehgaP3izAKBpaOPr-BAOaL1V0hclKreXyh-mYSpmt6WcIz/s1600/DSC02400.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6RwjaFPOdWyDMaj3GPgnJizB6Xg0AmZTGErxHQm0gdPpKGfAr1ZvwtIxDRsX4hgdWSyuu5YgoaLaNWruIv-bqIKKxkLRkJehgaP3izAKBpaOPr-BAOaL1V0hclKreXyh-mYSpmt6WcIz/s400/DSC02400.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475293581165568882" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">On the way to La Ceiba, we dropped of poles and tarps at the well at Las Yucas that will be<span style=""> </span>needed for Monday’s receiption of the Prime Minister of Luxumbourg.<span style=""> </span>She will be visiting to see first hand how the well which Caritas Luxumbourg/Switzerland and Cantera helped finance, is functioning.<span style=""> </span>As we were jouncing along, I mentioned that I was hungry because <span style=""> </span>I had forgotten to eat breakfast beingin a hurry to get to the office at 8:00…the prescribed time to leave. <span style=""> </span>Of course, we didn’t leave until 9:40.<span style=""> </span>So Claudio offered me a HUGE mango he’d acquired and handed me his Swiss Army knife!<span style=""> </span>This was a VERY RIPE mango…I leave the rest up to your imagination - jolting truck, VERY JUICY mango, sharp knife, small plastic bag, originally clean shirt and pants…..!!!<span style=""> </span>The mango was delicious!!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmtfrFXRz-rnXqofkfycOkEn_QVKvV_Kl2Vx_XDfjxWHU076DOBHzlXEdmPbMI233r9Q6luacFTYPYGz98h2Y0-QAKTXBf5ECPhA0bFs7Xqorn_UwP4lXvYYlaBS4YsnnaLCDkbOoW5Ta/s1600/DSC02398.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmtfrFXRz-rnXqofkfycOkEn_QVKvV_Kl2Vx_XDfjxWHU076DOBHzlXEdmPbMI233r9Q6luacFTYPYGz98h2Y0-QAKTXBf5ECPhA0bFs7Xqorn_UwP4lXvYYlaBS4YsnnaLCDkbOoW5Ta/s400/DSC02398.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475293592910152082" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">More people than anticipated arrived, including some who arrived just at dinner time.<span style=""> </span>Strange that they should arrived just in time for food!<span style=""> </span>Hm-m-m.<span style=""> </span>My concern was for the meal we’d<span style=""> </span>brought already prepared, but Regina and Victoria managed very well, making sure everyone had something to eat….even dividing up the cookies and wrapping them in a napkin…one for children, two for adults!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:100%;" >O course, getting there and returning always has its adventures, not the least of which is the return by the ‘bajada de San Andres’ which my colleague, Claudio, insists is much faster! I have my doubts about this. I’m going to prove scientifically that it’s not any faster.<span style=""> </span>It may be shorter, but not faster because it must be traveled VERY, VERY CAREFULLY!<span style=""> </span>He delights in exposing folks to this trail, especially if it’s a ‘first time’ which it was for two of the passengers one of which was riding in the bed of the pickup along with the empty cooking pots which kept sliding around and falling over!!<span style=""> </span>We arrived safely and in<span style=""> </span>good condition, if not a little muscle sore from the jolting and jostling!<span style=""> </span>I arrived home sweaty, rain soaked, mango stained and dirty but content, since a profitable day was had by <span style=""> </span>all …<span style=""> </span>Nicaraguan campo fashion!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:100%;" >So much for another day in the life of a gringa in the Nicaraguan ‘highlands’.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:100%;" >Thanks for following these adventures and this adventuress.<span style=""> </span>Gratitude for all you do to make this world and life a little easier for another/others.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:100%;" >Peace and Love,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:100%;">Jeanne</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-23890988033402191212010-05-04T22:02:00.005-05:002010-05-05T10:14:41.548-05:00Home Again<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLiFxowjFKbzWLWA7WNkAhDbS-nA8Es81JKz7r2SdWtWsIniUxNUPON0pr0N31jl2m46ZF6Z9hr1RMn8Y5-XycgibtqPQoSsGWQHzrNR0fql2tHGu52LYGjB0kKXR47NhPftQt83GuNeiz/s1600/dia+26+%284%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLiFxowjFKbzWLWA7WNkAhDbS-nA8Es81JKz7r2SdWtWsIniUxNUPON0pr0N31jl2m46ZF6Z9hr1RMn8Y5-XycgibtqPQoSsGWQHzrNR0fql2tHGu52LYGjB0kKXR47NhPftQt83GuNeiz/s400/dia+26+%284%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467616933379410130" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The translation for the hanging, which is a representation of the previous gatherings in 1991, 1995, 2000, and 2005 (northern Brazil , Mexico, southern Brazil, Peru) starting from our roots in LePuy, France, in 1650. "Extending our Nets We Weave Unity".<br /><br /></span></div>Greetings from the land where six months of totally dry weather has given way to very, very wet weather!<span style=""> </span>You can’t imagine how much rain can fall all at the same time!!<span style=""> </span>For sure, the land needs the rain but my very wet clothes (especially the heavy ones I wore in Argentina!) don’t seem to be on the same wave length.<span style=""> </span>Oh well, sooner or later they will dry…probably later!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88Uiwdk6bhbmX1Bp_b5Iwj-EgxHNk8u5SOHuRz36GEkWyzRjrcY69zkO4P8UE12LMgyiUFcfch9-rTcyceeJg0xOsFdMhI2L3ODJrKI8Mj2o4Ht3Yf2mDeLmhak0_9BZ4ta_-ugqRmOh6/s1600/dia+26+%2880%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 509px; height: 348px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88Uiwdk6bhbmX1Bp_b5Iwj-EgxHNk8u5SOHuRz36GEkWyzRjrcY69zkO4P8UE12LMgyiUFcfch9-rTcyceeJg0xOsFdMhI2L3ODJrKI8Mj2o4Ht3Yf2mDeLmhak0_9BZ4ta_-ugqRmOh6/s400/dia+26+%2880%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467616938851844034" border="0" /></a><o:p></o:p><p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: italic;">"I'm the easiest to spot..'happy jacket' standing on extreme left...Marie Hogan, topmost 'head only' in back row...Dianne Fanguy, sitting a little left of center with bright pink shirt....Kathy McCluskey, to my left. Jan must have been elsewhere at the time of the photo. The two Haitian sisters seem to have 'not received the translation' and three others had betaken themselves to Toronto, Rome and Philadelphia! So much for large group photos!!" <br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>We returned from the two week gathering of<span style=""> </span>101 CSJs who minister in Latin America and the Caribbean, on Thursday evening after nine hours of flight time and a there hour time difference.<span style=""> </span>Arriving at 7:30pm (really 10:30pm in Buenos Aires) gave us some extra time to sleep, eventually.<span style=""> </span>It was good to be home but the gathering, sharing and enjoying of so many of our sisters – fifteen different countries represented and nineteen different congregations of CSJs – were indeed<span style=""> </span>gifts and very enriching.<span style=""> </span>We ranged in age from the ‘early 30’s’ to the ‘over 80’s’.<span style=""> </span>Youth and energy, mixed with wisdom and experience, was a wonderful blend!<span style=""> </span>Spanish (at least two versions), Portuguese, Creole (spoken in Haiti), French and English were the languages you could hear at any one moment.<span style=""> </span>Translators were kept ‘on their toes’ to keep everyone understanding.<span style=""> </span>One connection was translating from Spanish or Portuguese to English and then into Creole!<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">We were blessed to have four of our sisters – two Haitians, one Canadian (English speaker), one Canadian (French speaker) - <span style=""> </span>present so that we could enter somewhat into their experience of<span style=""> </span>the earthquake and this time of reconstruction and healing.<span style=""> </span>We also had among us, three from Chile who had experienced the earthquake there.<span style=""> </span>These natural disasters take on a different feel when you hear first hand of the trauma and suffering along with the resilience of the people.<span style=""> </span>Needless to say, we now feel much more connected and interconnected.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">We had two days when we visited some of the ministry sites of our Argentinian sisters.<span style=""> </span>They are connected with so many wonderful ministries with the very poor….yes, there is poverty in Argentina in spite of the fact that it more resembles a European country rather than a typical South American one.<span style=""> </span>We also had some time to see parts of Buenos Aires and to spend time on their rivers that lead into their capital and then flow into the Atlantic Ocean.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Our time with our own congregation prior to the international experience was also very enjoyable.<span style=""> </span>There were about four hundred of us gathered in Chicago right after Easter….so resurrection joy continued on as we met and shared and planned for our future together.<span style=""> </span>There were opportunities to see some family members during this time and that’s always a joy. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Now, it’s back to ministry in Nica land.<span style=""> </span>It will be good to see co-workers once again and get caught up on Nicaraguan life during the past month.<span style=""> </span>I’ll check in again in a couple of weeks.<span style=""> </span>Thanks for following the journey of this itinerant woman!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Peace within and without, at home and abroad and throughout our universe….that’s a big order but attainable if we each do our piece of peace-making.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="">Love,<span style=""> </span>Jeanne <o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-68939539035601510422010-04-14T11:52:00.003-05:002010-04-14T12:05:24.416-05:00This Small World<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZS3B4_5VEmqHcfQIw-MhNQg3peOBfmMYBCZD5Gjke18VsJU0WC1CWGyetpJhB9-_PDSAPOJeivvbiLEaKm7KW7W-vPefAgW4ioukjzGBtnJBGKTuF9jMqO3DH3r_sPsD_UeaJbCkOGcg/s1600/550px-Nicaragua_(orthographic_projection).svg.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZS3B4_5VEmqHcfQIw-MhNQg3peOBfmMYBCZD5Gjke18VsJU0WC1CWGyetpJhB9-_PDSAPOJeivvbiLEaKm7KW7W-vPefAgW4ioukjzGBtnJBGKTuF9jMqO3DH3r_sPsD_UeaJbCkOGcg/s400/550px-Nicaragua_(orthographic_projection).svg.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460038895177744098" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I’m back in Nicaragua for a few days before betaking myself, along with over 100 other Sisters of St. Joseph, to Argentina where we’ll spend two weeks together.<span style=""> </span>All of us are involved in ministry in Latin America or the Caribbean area.<span style=""> </span>This ‘encuentro’ occurs every 5 years in a different country.<o:p></o:p><p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">While I was home for our annual Assembly I had the opportunity to speak to a wonderful group of young folks in Royal Oak.<span style=""> </span>They are students at Shrine Catholic Academy and High School.<span style=""> </span>It wasn’t the best of times…it was 8:30 in the morning on a Monday…the day after the final presentation of their annual play!!<span style=""> </span>Need I say more?<span style=""> </span>I had been so informed, in case I noted nodding heads.<span style=""> </span>Also, the Spanish students had to leave at a given moment in order to take a computerized test. However, all that being said, it was a wonderful experience for this woman who has not taught junior or senior high students since 1972!<span style=""> </span>They were attentive, asked intelligent and thought provoking questions and were enjoyable to spend time with.<span style=""> </span>They had been carrying out projects and collecting money for our ‘pregnant cow’ program during Lent.<span style=""> </span>They raised $940.00 which will comfortably purchase cows for 2 families.<span style=""> </span>We are grateful for their generosity, interest and hard work, to say the least!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">More than introducing them to the country and people of Nicaragua, I wanted to share some of my passion for ministry with our sisters and brothers who are less fortunate than ourselves in the realm of economics and opportunities enabling them to have a decent, respectable and healthy life. I had no desire to make them feel guilty about what they have but rather wanted to encourage them to examine and act upon the numerous opportunities available to them as they begin to form their plans for their careers, their futures.<span style=""> </span>No one of us is created for ourselves alone.<span style=""> </span>We are a significant part of this small, global village and have a responsibility to make this world a better place for our sisters and brothers of whatever land or clime.<span style=""> </span>And so, I asked them to explore their options for experiences in other countries…not the developed lands…but the large majority of our earth where folks do not have enough to eat or safe water to drink, where they don’t have quality education – or basic education - provided for them, where they<span style=""> </span>don’t have the luxury to dream of a future that’s hopefully going to come somewhere close to those dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">Such an experience will leave them much more aware and help to round out their plans. <span style=""> </span>No, I don’t expect folks to come to Latin America en masse.<span style=""> </span>However, by leaving oneself open to the experience attitudes are altered and formed and decisions can be made based on a broader perspective, a bigger picture of who we are and what we are called to do during our ‘one, wild and precious life’ in Mary Oliver’s words.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Photo: Courtesy of Wiki Commons</span></span><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-78193150747419826992010-03-25T14:22:00.005-06:002010-03-25T14:34:00.961-06:00Another Journey<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlpOq29ukY_qeciZDjYw6pdxZHvZvamqDWRHPDA3TG8FMyrqkyT5zFNyevxGj7y0bz02vorzSyRnNIySavTUgvPhThmr9mR3Jxigi-amQSU3cc0qKBnMhuTXPIqc5QQknp6NtJoR5R9py/s1600/278+%284%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlpOq29ukY_qeciZDjYw6pdxZHvZvamqDWRHPDA3TG8FMyrqkyT5zFNyevxGj7y0bz02vorzSyRnNIySavTUgvPhThmr9mR3Jxigi-amQSU3cc0qKBnMhuTXPIqc5QQknp6NtJoR5R9py/s400/278+%284%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452672239242270322" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="">Dear followers of “Sister Act 3”,<o:p></o:p></span> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">I have been procrastinating about updating this blog and now it’s time to leave Nica land for a short while.<span style=""> </span>I will be traveling to the States for Holy Week in Detroit and then Easter Week in Chicago for congregational meetings.<span style=""> </span>There will be over 400 of us gathered there as we meet and plan and enjoy each other….and that we do, very well.<span style=""> </span>Once back from Chicago I’ll have two days in Managua and then be off with the other two CSJs from here to meet up with our Marie Hogan (Leadership Team) from the States and Jan Kurtz who ministers in Lima, Peru, for our gathering of C/SSJs who live and work in Latin America and the Caribbean area.<span style=""> </span>This happens every 5 </span><span style="">years and in a different country each time.<span style=""> </span>It will be a great two weeks sharing and meeting and enjoying with others who are engaged in similar ministries with our sisters and brothers in this part of our world.<span style=""> </span>I will blog after the events and let you know how everything unfolded.<span style=""> </span>We return on April 29<sup>th</sup>, so I’ll check back in sometime in the beginning of May.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p>While I’m in Detroit I’ll be connecting with the students from Shrine Junior and Senior High School and bringing them a bit of the reality of life in a tropical/dry Nicaragua which is the second poorest country next to Haiti.<span style=""> </span>They’ve been collecting funds to pay for a cow which will be a great help for some family.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMAv4i32wFyTIxmWb6FVq2vTMQlaDcvBYx-cqUC64rfBYr17rbgjonEGCP-6oY3alWvief5HaNeU5kJUrYo_ghr5bouYwYXiDoB_sLfweFqpHJcjjZlp0vikepD1VuLmLDjOILGNZLTO-/s1600/114.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMAv4i32wFyTIxmWb6FVq2vTMQlaDcvBYx-cqUC64rfBYr17rbgjonEGCP-6oY3alWvief5HaNeU5kJUrYo_ghr5bouYwYXiDoB_sLfweFqpHJcjjZlp0vikepD1VuLmLDjOILGNZLTO-/s400/114.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452672234177408466" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">The timing is just right, since this has been their Lenten project and it will help the connection between ‘here’ and ‘there’.<span style=""> </span>Thanks to Mary Ann and all who have put forth effort into this project.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p>The last time I wrote we were engaged in starting a ‘vivero’ nursery of trees.<span style=""> </span>The 15,000 little black bags now have been filled and they have seeds within and hopefully are growing and thriving.<span style=""> </span>After 3 – 4 months they will be able to be transplanted.<span style=""> </span>They are part of a reforestation project.<span style=""> </span>The big challenge is keep them watered.<span style=""> </span>We haven’t had rain since forever….and it’s nowhere in sight!<span style=""> </span>Everything is VERY dry, dusty and non-green!!<span style=""> </span>It will be good to experience some RAIN in Michigan and Illinois.<span style=""> </span>Remind me not to complain about it when I’m there!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p>May Holy Week bring many blessings and Easter a time of great joy and celebration of ‘life conquering death’.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p>Until next time when we meet at “Sister Act 3”,<span style=""> </span>many thanks for all each one does to make this world a better place for everyone.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">Love and peace,<span style=""><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="">Jeanne<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-640229573645098992010-03-05T12:49:00.004-06:002010-03-05T13:02:54.486-06:00The Nature of ThingsAs we read of still MORE snow in the northeast USA, we find ourselves trying to find a bit of shade and a bit of breeze SOMEWHERE.<span style=""> </span>It is unseasonably hot and they tell us that the much needed rain that normally comes in May will not arrive until July.<span style=""> </span>The climate is off all over our small green planet and we have some responsibility for this.<span style=""> </span>We’ve just experienced the second devastating earthquake in our western hemisphere, in Chile.<span style=""> </span>We were warned of a possible tsunami event but thankfully we didn’t experience the huge waves that were expected.<span style=""> </span>We did <span style="font-size:100%;">have some winds and rain during the night after the earthquake.<span style=""> </span>What a welcome sound…rain on my tin roof!</span><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjtPrT6EyVm5Mxa974_2Np1t16g4c_tkIGoKYfY9ClWja0rgt6Tlv6NnEpgj85tfHsTXO_wqk2d2lTKLNtB693r44pCRBb8rK0vg62AWh21WAeI_6ofXhMq8uwMpmdutMst5bE5AoLmv8/s1600-h/169.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjtPrT6EyVm5Mxa974_2Np1t16g4c_tkIGoKYfY9ClWja0rgt6Tlv6NnEpgj85tfHsTXO_wqk2d2lTKLNtB693r44pCRBb8rK0vg62AWh21WAeI_6ofXhMq8uwMpmdutMst5bE5AoLmv8/s400/169.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445224824023448626" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Maria Veronica and Juanita examining a 'find' from nature in the rural school of Los Filos.</span></span></span><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">I’m writing of these events because part of what we’ve been involved in lately is the formation, for this year, of our ecology brigades among the school children, youth and adults.<span style=""> </span>These folks are our forerunners of a more healthy, more kindly treated natural environment.<span style=""> </span>We have been visiting our very h</span><span style="font-size:100%;">umble rural schools…some of them with all children in grades 1-6 in the same room and with only a few desks and very little more.<span style=""> </span>They are very aware of Madre Tierra (Mother Earth) who surrounds them at all times.<span style=""> </span>They know the trees, their leaves, the flowers, the birds, the native animals and how to use the leaves and flowers for remedies and medicine.<span style=""> </span>They will be involved in helping to raise consciousness about the dangers that face our environment and the health issues connected thereto.<span style=""> </span>They will be helping to clean up their homes and communities and enco</span><span style="font-size:100%;">uraging their families to do so while seeing that garbage is cared for properly.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>These children will also be responsible for cultivating and maintaining their </span><span style="font-size:100%;">school gardens that will supply them with tomatoes, sweet peppers, lettuce and other veggies that they wouldn’t </span><span style="font-size:100%;">normally have included in their diet.<span style=""> </span>It is indeed a formidable task with six months of drought each year.<span style=""> </span>However, youth have a way of circumventing the impossible and making some progress.<span style=""> </span>They’re proud of their T-shirts and caps that set them apart... shirts that say “I care for the environment” on the front, and on the back, “…and you?” <span style=""> </span>They will help with reforestation because one of Nicaragua’s MAJOR problems </span><span style="font-size:100%;">is the cutting of trees on the hillsides. <span style=""> </span>This is done to provide wood for cooking and for the making of charcoal.<span style=""> </span>Both of these items can then be sold and thus provide a little income for families.<span style=""> </span>It’s a Catch-22!<span style=""> </span>They need the cash to supplement their beans, rice and corn diet, but in so doing they are facilitating erosion, driving the water table lower making it even more difficult to locate underground water, and disturbing the balance of gas exchange.<span style=""> </span>An approach to this dilemma is to replant three trees for every tree felled.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SZv0DP9k5_sSCcp-J89qG3Mh8gse520FJKLZXzVeCaeveV1w5ONp3_yuSFerPBp58A1rX5Sxb7lNGkUiVTHqDeQmsZltg8rGZNoe5TXU6R2IhT9PC8pZisyIomSTq6lZvUst4jluPD6Q/s1600-h/308.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SZv0DP9k5_sSCcp-J89qG3Mh8gse520FJKLZXzVeCaeveV1w5ONp3_yuSFerPBp58A1rX5Sxb7lNGkUiVTHqDeQmsZltg8rGZNoe5TXU6R2IhT9PC8pZisyIomSTq6lZvUst4jluPD6Q/s400/308.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445224829173434194" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> The beginning of a tree nursery....filling 5,000 plastic bags with prepared soil!</span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">To get started in this latest aspect, we had a day long workshop with representatives from each of the six areas in which we are working.<span style=""> </span>There was<span style=""> </span>time for sharing and learning and time for working.<span style=""> </span>It was quite literally a WORKshop!<span style=""> </span>We filled 5,000 small black plastic bags with properly mixed soil.<span style=""> </span>Now I’m here to tell you that that constitutes WORK!!<span style=""> </span>The spirit was great and in spite of the heat and DIRT, we managed quite well.<span style=""> </span>This is the first step in developing a vivero (nursery).<span style=""> </span>Eventually, the seed of a tree will be planted in each one, carefully watered and tended and eventually<span style=""> </span>transplanted in the various areas where the children and youth live in an effort to replace trees that have been cut down.<span style=""> </span>We’ll have another ‘go’ at it again in three weeks.<span style=""> </span>By then my body will have recuperated!!<span style=""> </span>It’s called “stoop labor”!!<span style=""> </span>The goal is 15,000 saplings!!<span style=""> </span>And so…seed by seed we move into a healthier future!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">With the coming of the rainy season, we’ll be able to place the famous ‘pregnant cows’ in their new homes.<span style=""> </span>Because the folks rely on the uncultivated ‘greenery’ for food for the cattle, we can only move this project along during the rainy season.<span style=""> </span>Everything in its time!<span style=""> </span>However, there are three families anxiously waiting for cows and within a couple of months this should be a reality for them…soon a calf and then milk and cheese to eat and sell.<span style=""> </span>The students at Shrine High School in Royal Oak, Michigan, are sponsoring a part of this project by their donations during Lent.<span style=""> </span>We’re grateful to them and also to all who help us along as we accompany the people on their journey to a more dignified and healthier life.<span style=""> </span>The chickens will also be placed soon with two families in Los Planes de Cuajachillo 2.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">I’m looking forward to our Assembly in Chicago during Easter Week and will be spending Holy Week in Michigan.<span style=""> </span>Holy Week here is vacation for all….including for those responsible for printing newspapers!! There’s no connection with religious motives, it’s just the time for everyone to be “off”.<span style=""> </span>Since this is the case, it’s an opportunity to come home a week ahead of our Assembly.<span style=""> </span>I’ll see some of you then and I look forward to that.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">Thanks for whatever you are doing to be aware of all our sisters and brothers throughout the world .. especially those who do not have the opportunities as do some of us, for a more dignified and healthier life.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">Gratefully,</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Your sister, Jeanne</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-33178566883306932212010-02-15T10:02:00.001-06:002010-02-15T10:04:09.465-06:00Blessings In DisguiseI’m trying to keep up with regular blogging, and so far so good!<span style=""> </span><br /><br />I thought that for this posting I’d describe for you a blessed moment on the bus!<span style=""> </span>Now, the bus and the ride in itself do not seem to have the trappings of a blessing….however, the people one has the opportunity to meet can indeed be a blessing.<span style=""> </span>Last Friday the usual groups of those seeking money appeared on the bus as I was riding on my way to the office.<span style=""> </span>Two young children came on to sing and strum a guitar.<span style=""> </span>They were definitely not candidates for the choir, but their energy was definitely worth noting.<span style=""> </span>Next a blind gentleman, who appears frequently, got on the bus and played his accordian.<span style=""> </span>Finally, a VERY ELDERLY woman with long, flowing, white hair and a crutch was basically lifted up onto the bus.<span style=""> </span>She was alone and at the mercy of folks who helped her.<span style=""> </span>She sat next to me and there was definitely something special between us.<span style=""> </span>She was very poor, but clean and sporting a white apron.<span style=""> </span>She spoke so softly I had to put my ear next to her mouth.<span style=""> </span>She wanted to know what bus route we were on.<span style=""> </span>I told her it was the 114 and asked where she wanted to go.<span style=""> </span>She told me “el Zumen” (the name of a well known area) and I said that indeed she could get there on the 114.<span style=""> </span>She had the most beautiful wrinkled, brown face and was just a whisper of a person.<span style=""> </span>I asked her age and she told me, “I’m 90!”<span style=""> </span>I asked her what she was going to do at “el Zumen” and she just held out her opened palm.<span style=""> </span>She wasn’t asking me for anything, just demonstrating that she would be asking for alms from those waiting in that area.<span style=""> </span>It came time for her to leave and several helped her down the bus steps.<span style=""> </span>We were delayed for several minutes at this stop….this happens when the bus of the same route is too close to the one preceeding it.<span style=""> </span>So, I continued to watch her walk up and down with the aid of her crutch and with one hand extended.<span style=""> </span>Several people gave her something, while others tried not to see her.<span style=""> </span>It occurred to me that “prayer happened” when this humble yet independent woman sat next to me.<span style=""> </span>Such determination to do what she had to do to survive.<span style=""> </span>She is a symbol for me of the extreme situation of so many of our people.<span style=""> </span>At her age, one would hope for a peaceful, dignified place to rest and receive assistance.<span style=""> </span>Not so for so many of the very poor of this world.<span style=""> </span>There is no rest, there is only struggle to survive each day….and yes, there can be dignity in the very midst of it all. God does indeed visit us, especially in the poor.<o:p></o:p><p></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;">What indications of love and dedication did you encounter on Valentine’s Day but also today<o:p></o:p> and each day?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Thanks for keeping up with ‘life in Nicaragua’ as experienced by your sister,</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Jeanne!</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-8798819523774839192010-02-02T12:10:00.004-06:002010-02-02T12:29:53.529-06:00Un Nuevo AmanecerNow that my blog is on the CSJ website I am being nudged by several to post more frequently…my goal is every two weeks, but there’s always hope for once a week. Time will tell.<br /><br />The people of Nicaragua are in solidarity, as is the rest of the world, with Haiti as they try to rise from the ashes and begin life anew. However, for the Nicaraguans there’s a deeper feeling because of the geographical closeness and the levels of poverty both experience - Haiti is the poorest of the area and Nicaragua the second poorest. The other connection is that in 1972 Managua suffered a very devastating earthquake and you can still see some of the resulting destruction in buildings that have never been demolished. Lives lost were incalculable. Then in 1998, Hurricane Mitch created incredible loss and damage over large parts of Nicaragua. Such similar suffering draws groups closer in compassion.<br /><br />The past weeks since my return have been pretty active with planning sessions, left overs of evaluations of projects, dedication of a new project….and just general reentry and fitting back into the rhythms of each day. It’s only been three weeks since I left the States…but it seems like months.<br /><br />The weather continues to be fairly pleasant and we snatch each day and appreciate it because we know that the extreme heat and rains are on their way. I guess it’s the best way to live….appreciating each day and the gifts, challenges and opportunities it brings. A loving God gives us a certain amount of time each day and then it’s over and into the next! We often speak of each day as “un nuevo amanecer” which translates as “a new dawning”. It seems an excellent way to view each new day.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IzbsSkmJpRknjM4Fz9cV6_Zf8_dkL15cHO1mosaZOAdRqjUB-GPAA5SYAAefgpc61XJW8aUGC-NoRprRwA-q6x7eZplkdfy6YZZE2vkhl8MypiuEmq00xIQj0g1OiWT4lpd2ICGkTf1I/s1600-h/P1110890%5B1%5D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IzbsSkmJpRknjM4Fz9cV6_Zf8_dkL15cHO1mosaZOAdRqjUB-GPAA5SYAAefgpc61XJW8aUGC-NoRprRwA-q6x7eZplkdfy6YZZE2vkhl8MypiuEmq00xIQj0g1OiWT4lpd2ICGkTf1I/s400/P1110890%5B1%5D.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433713125850124754" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Japanese Ambassador, Shinichi Saito, and his assistant listening to Brother Chepe explain the process of drying hibiscus petals which are used to make a bright maroon drink which is a popular in Nicaragua.<br /><br /></span></span></div>Last Friday, we had a new experience. The Japanese Ambassador and two of his assistants, along with a representative of an Austrian group working with development, came to the Finca (our farm that is used for inservice on matters agricultural). He came because we were inaugurating our project for the drying of fruits, vegetables, herbs, etc. that can then be packaged and sold. It’s the beginning of a micro-business for some of our women. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPRGk4UnXZ4n2b5eeDXiWMnItN4Hv8WNRq1AhTraHECEcUOGvg1pPgrVTCWhLHrXdRkCYXbSirtYK2CIRtH3v5dGqi7IDrkNRwg4hKtNsuQ3CM32BlUDgmUS_mof7YIbo6nTxSIdlxH2QJ/s1600-h/P1110984%5B2%5D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPRGk4UnXZ4n2b5eeDXiWMnItN4Hv8WNRq1AhTraHECEcUOGvg1pPgrVTCWhLHrXdRkCYXbSirtYK2CIRtH3v5dGqi7IDrkNRwg4hKtNsuQ3CM32BlUDgmUS_mof7YIbo6nTxSIdlxH2QJ/s400/P1110984%5B2%5D.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433713129485022754" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sr. Anabel, CSA, (directress of Cantera), Lutgarda (directress of the Finca) and the Ambassador viewing photos of the women learning the process involved in dehydrating fruits, vegetables and herbs.<br /><br /></span></span></div>I won’t go into how ‘secardores’ (units for drying) function but just say that solar energy, fans for moving the hot air and wooden and metal ‘ovens’ are all part of this process. There were moments of mini-panic as final touches were put on the building and clean up began. We don’t do too much ahead of time here in Latin America but it always seems to get done! Not important that we were taping photos of the process on bulletin boards just minutes before the distinguished arrival! Everything was very festive and national anthems were played with flags of each nation flying. Ribbons were cut and words were said … can you imagine being a Japanese speaker and trying to speak Spanish! Well, he did it quite well in spite of only being here 2.5 years. He also speaks English so I was conscripted to sit with him and his assistants after the ceremony when we were having refreshments. At one point we were trying to get the Japanese flag higher off the floor so it wouldn’t touch the ground and ended up using concrete blocks and twine. I repeated to the Ambassador the director’s comment of , “tecnologia avanzado” (advanced technology!) and he responded, “Muy avanzado!” (VERY advanced) and then laughed heartily. He was very impressed with what he saw as he toured the Finca and told me that though everything is simple, he was indeed very impressed with all he saw. That was high praise and the folks really appreciated hearing it. The folks who have been receiving training in the process of dehydrating fruits and vegetables were present for the ceremony and rightly proud of the undertaking.<br /><br />I will close for now and once again express my gratitude for your interest and involvement in our efforts here in Nicaragua to accompany the people as they move forward in their own leadership qualities and accomplishments. The building of self-esteem based on their individual and collective spirituality is indeed beautiful to observe.<br /><br />Love and gratitude,<br />Your sister, JeanneJeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-38583947212163827582010-01-19T10:16:00.003-06:002010-01-19T10:25:37.756-06:00The Journey Continues<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Bcrz_pDdqqtqK0-yBAsTpva0RDy2KdBGmVQFfxaNA5f8Zd2iyMogCp6pqJFAnNmFz7Gi3h_EGlHFx29YaZVYKYs6VjzOS3Cgx8-1mnHT6AnTChz8hHaGxs1jMXv82PLu6qJSStIi5UOY/s1600-h/dd7433%5B3%5D.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Bcrz_pDdqqtqK0-yBAsTpva0RDy2KdBGmVQFfxaNA5f8Zd2iyMogCp6pqJFAnNmFz7Gi3h_EGlHFx29YaZVYKYs6VjzOS3Cgx8-1mnHT6AnTChz8hHaGxs1jMXv82PLu6qJSStIi5UOY/s400/dd7433%5B3%5D.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428486177456086002" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">“Cantera<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Center of Communication and Popular Education<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Merry Christmas and New Year<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">We sing of peace and solidarity among peoples , of women and men who construct a new world. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Constructing Dreams and Utopias”<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">January 17, 2010<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Managua, Nicaragua<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Yes, I’ve finally returned to Nica land… Sunday the 10<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I arrived just fine but eventually accepted the fact that one suitcase did not arrive with me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The following day with a fair amount of insisting it finally appeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It feels as though I’ve been back for at least a month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I left cold and snowy Detroit and arrived in breezy, ‘just right’ weather here in Managua.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Actually, it’s a little chilly at night, in the higher 60’s. Now don’t be jealous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We will soon be into really hot weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Just<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>yesterday, as I was returning from hospital visits, I realized that I was really warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The sun is more intense here…so I found myself some shade in which to walk!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">We’re into planning for this coming year, preparing for the inauguaration of our building for drying fruits, vegetables and herbs which will be attended by the Japanese ambassador.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Japan has helped in the construction of this project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’ll write more about this later .. after the event on January 29<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We’ve also met with our community promoters and are off to a good start with them and our projects that we’ll be pursuing this coming year.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Speaking of projects, I want to say a very large GRACIAS to all of you who have so generously contributed to our work here in Nicaragua.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Without you and grants from other countries there would be no work with the poor here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You are all included in our nightly CSJ prayers.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Soon after I returned I learned of the death of one of my friends who, along with his wife Madge, have been supporters of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>our projects here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Jack Kinsella is a good friend whom I met during my years at St. John Oakland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He was a faithful Spiritual Care Volunteer and served our people well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I always looked forward to our conversations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>His thinking was broad and open, accepting of differences and eager to<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>embrace new ideas….and his spirit was one of blessing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I will miss Jack and pray in gratitude for his life gift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also pray for peace and comfort for Madge and his children and family.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">I had wonderful times in the States and saw many of you during those days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Reuniting with family and friends always leaves me very grateful for each one of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was hard to return but now that I’m back in the swing of things, it’s good and right to be here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It did take me a few days however, to feel at home in my ‘second home’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Cultures are so different and sometimes I don’t realize how much I’m impacted by the differences.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Of course, along with the whole world, we here in Central America are feeling so deeply with our Hatian sisters and brothers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For those who were here in 1972, it brings back horrible memories of the terrible earthquake experienced here in the Managua area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They estimated that 20,000 were killed then,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>but this looks like there will be many more deaths in Haiti’s capital area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We still have remnants of the devastation such trauma can cause, not only physically but emotionally and mentally as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Such disasters tend to bring about closer ties among all of us as relief is sent and life begins anew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We pray that Haiti will arise from the ashes and be able to build a better future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We all have a part to play in this dream.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">I’m finding myself involved with our Cap Corps young women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>These are volunteers in their 20’s who are here for two years and who are involved in various<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>areas of mission and who develop their community life around spiritual and cultural growth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They will be praying with us at our community evening prayer a couple of times a month beginnning this week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They are a source of life and energy as they generously give of themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We also have Jesuit volunteers and two volunteers at Batahola Center who interact with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It keeps some of us older folk, younger!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">For those of you who are aware of my inward as well as my outward journey, I find that I’ve moved beyond my trying to understand “why” I’m here and have accepted that the gift of the present moment, wherever we may be, is where the focus needs to be and where the Spirit resides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This, I find, is a more ‘aware’ stance and so I journey on, grateful for each of you as we accompany each other.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Love and gratitude,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Your sister, Jeanne<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-67458024861964809782009-10-30T22:12:00.004-06:002010-01-27T13:19:23.866-06:00The Minimum Necessities<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS05rdyPIRV6DGoyPGUI9LzOpAPOv8iSVq64Zl2hexBIsTIE8h04Z9dl8narAmXUVFPzf_7AlDaWgIu6q8p09kp5Vgp7mtf1HZpEzLjSsxMjRmhUws2-HBEvIBowlud21AY-TlyPrEV4r/s1600-h/108_1276%5B1%5D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS05rdyPIRV6DGoyPGUI9LzOpAPOv8iSVq64Zl2hexBIsTIE8h04Z9dl8narAmXUVFPzf_7AlDaWgIu6q8p09kp5Vgp7mtf1HZpEzLjSsxMjRmhUws2-HBEvIBowlud21AY-TlyPrEV4r/s400/108_1276%5B1%5D.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398613283639521602" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;"><br />Jeanne learning how to strip dried corn from the cob</span></div><br />Dear Blog Followers,<br /><br />That doesn’t sound too flattering for a name but what do I call those of you who faithfully tap in hoping to find some updated news? Suggestions are welcome!<br /><br />In a little more than three weeks, I’ll be northern bound, praying that whoever picks me up at the airport remembers my jacket and gloves! It’s hard to think about COLD when it’s so blooming humid and hot. It rained hard all last night but is bright and sunny today. I have come home soaked to the skin twice this week because of the heavy downpours we’ve had. The point is that we are now in the DRY season, WINTER. Well, it will never be winter here, but it will be dry….someday! I did manage to get my laundry dry yesterday, which was a minor miracle. One becomes grateful for any little thing….small breeze, bird call, a turned down boom box, a smile from a child, frosting on the end of your nose because you’re eating a piece of greatly frosted cake without the assistance of an implement, etc….you get the idea.<br /><br />I’m looking forward to time home so I can connect with a number of you who so faithfully hang in with this far-flung friend. I’d also like to remind all with whom I’ll meet that red beans, boiled bananas and white rice are not items I’ll miss in my diet!!<br /><br />I just received word that I will be able to connect with friends I’ve not seen for many years who live in Falls Church, VA. They are generously flying me to D.C. so we can reconnect and catch up on each others lives. I’m so grateful for so many friends and the various ways in which our lives have intersected and paralleled. While home I’ll make my annual retreat (Cleveland) and connect with my CSJ Mission Circle in Wichita right after Christmas. I’m grateful that I extended this visit in order to peacefully reconnect.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AviFHgZCtCDk7DbM-vWCADX6eQCHmXhne3HeODaMLsgsZXRboVi8cc3oGh6mj9fJJeyuE6C_LPFEzFgg9OOf2059iLy96kGdIW6T03QRU8n4pGFgFsBxSCvj9_BgNHDAv6S9Og1C7SIm/s1600-h/108_1274%5B1%5D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AviFHgZCtCDk7DbM-vWCADX6eQCHmXhne3HeODaMLsgsZXRboVi8cc3oGh6mj9fJJeyuE6C_LPFEzFgg9OOf2059iLy96kGdIW6T03QRU8n4pGFgFsBxSCvj9_BgNHDAv6S9Og1C7SIm/s400/108_1274%5B1%5D.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398613279912918674" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Two young friends just 'hanging out'</span></span></div><br />Life here continues to be hectic in terms of government – but not physically dangerous. The people continue to struggle for daily sustenance, especially in the rural areas where crops did not do well due to lack of usual rainfall. Some farmers chose to risk using seed to do a second planting and hopefully the ‘out of season’ rain we’re receiving will give them an additional % of harvest of beans and corn.<br /><br />One of my favorite entertainments….bus riding…continues to amuse me. The other morning I took the wrong bus! Imagine, after almost two years here, I still do such things. Well, I immediately noted the error and hopped off at the next stop and boarded a bus that would take me where I wanted to go. Actually, it was a happy fault because this bus was much more comfortable and had fewer people on board. The usual flow of folks come and go….preachers of the Good News and seekers of a few coins, sellers of ballpoint pens and parasite medicine, people asking for help with medicines or operations, children singing and begging (this is one of the more disturbing aspects), a blind gentleman who is a ‘regular’ who sings a hymn and then hopes for a few coins… and the list goes on. These are daily reminders of the extreme poverty the folks live with. And there’s no sign that this will change anytime in the near future.<br /><br />One of the blessings is that this year we did not have as many problems related to hurricanes and tropical storms. For that we’re grateful. Also, it’s dawning on me that we’ve not had a volcano threatening to explode lately. Since we have five active volcanos in the country, it’s unusual not to have one of them getting het up!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFpIuQQ3HMppk-sZkNLlGgHPGTGNzGImQmAc_m19qdO5GSYNE9t-rYFMVtPfEINRJP412kbF89v6CCt87joth_Y-t_IA6G3MDnyRjSbYJ5fE7_Ipe7aWS_wS4MgGmFA3U8blM8kQqw1Rs/s1600-h/108_1183%5B1%5D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFpIuQQ3HMppk-sZkNLlGgHPGTGNzGImQmAc_m19qdO5GSYNE9t-rYFMVtPfEINRJP412kbF89v6CCt87joth_Y-t_IA6G3MDnyRjSbYJ5fE7_Ipe7aWS_wS4MgGmFA3U8blM8kQqw1Rs/s400/108_1183%5B1%5D.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398613275646082882" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Pablo, Alejandro and Claudio discussing new latrine construction</span></span></div><br />I continue to visit our rural sisters and brothers and that’s always a joy. The community promoters are indeed an inspiration as they do their best to help their local area improve in small but meaningful ways. We meet with them monthly for an entire day and soon we’ll have a two day gathering of all the leaders from both rural sectors (Mateare in the north and Belen in the south) to report and evaluate and dream and plan. The group of women who meet every 15 days – that’s how you say ‘every two weeks’ in Spanish! – is also a joy for me. It’s not too hard to get there, but returning sometimes presents a challenge…but then I’ve always enjoyed challenges!! I accompany English speaking visitors on occasion and do written translation. I also am privileged to be Spiritual Companion for two women. Interacting with our “dear neighbors” is another ‘typically Sister of St. Joseph ministry’ which we enjoy. Joe Mulligan, SJ (from Detroit and Gesu Parish) and I connect periodially, especially at the ‘every 15 days’ Mass he offers at the Government Physical Rehabilitation Hospital. I visit there on Sundays, and on Saturdays I try to get to the women’s hospital and visit those who are there due to cancer related problems. So….I am privileged to be involved in a variety of activities and also just a lot of ‘presence’ with the people. This is in answer to several of you who ask, “What do you do?” I do keep busy but also take time to reflect and relax. I remind myself that being 71 should have some perks!!<br /><br />I’ll close for now and send this on its way, thanking each of you for who you are and what you do each day to make God’s plan for each of us and all of us become a reality….a dignified, healthy, respected life in the here and now.<br /><br />Blessings and gratitude,<br />Your sister, JeanneJeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-87448658244319861322009-09-21T13:02:00.003-05:002009-09-21T13:14:37.878-05:00Alternative Approach to Celebrating One's Birth<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis905kdMHaZxro2IfH_n8NYr7I9C7ZmiOEKTcpLw6UR2wPGUIif2EYR8I802UZ4CRwQ2MWtXTjk3Ix_GOHCaC6-lmhGJ3FsiCg_kqxQkUFwnafl8IvIN2swRUOn-GA_tEMokznXaAFs8kf/s1600-h/Fotos_huertos_sept_09_027%5B1%5D-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis905kdMHaZxro2IfH_n8NYr7I9C7ZmiOEKTcpLw6UR2wPGUIif2EYR8I802UZ4CRwQ2MWtXTjk3Ix_GOHCaC6-lmhGJ3FsiCg_kqxQkUFwnafl8IvIN2swRUOn-GA_tEMokznXaAFs8kf/s400/Fotos_huertos_sept_09_027%5B1%5D-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383985674953362722" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Saludos amigas y amigos de una Nicaragua MUY, MUY CALIENTE! Greetings friends from a VERY, VERY HOT Nicaragua!<br /><br />I think I´m doing better with blog posts. I know that many of you check in often and wonder what is going on down here and don’t discover a new posting. So…I am trying to be more current. Today I want to share with you how I celebrated, lived, survived my 71st birthday on September 8th!<br /><br />Seventy-one years ago on September 8, 1938 I arrived during the wee hours of the morning…like 3:00a.m.!! I’ve been an early riser ever since!!<br /><br />This year I began my special day for giving thanks for the tremendous gift of life, an incredible set of parents and two big brothers by rising early, spending time in prayer and reflection, preparing a special breakfast of bacon, a perfect omelet, coffee and toast and enjoying my surroundings. Shortly thereafter I left for our office in the center of Managua.<br /><br />Together with Claudio and Vero, my companions in rural ministry, we started for the campo. We were destined for a farm unknown to us where there were pregnant cows waiting to be selected by two families. Well, I don’t know if they were really eager and waiting to be selected but such was their destiny that day. Claudio who drives the truck was not well, but insisted on going. Actually, we can’t do such trips without him! We nearly met OUR FINAL destiny when Claudio failed to see a stopped bus in the road ahead of us. Vero gently called his attention to the looming obstacle, Claudio jammed on the brakes, the truck slid cattywumpus on the road (providentially, there were no vehicles approaching from the other direction!) and came to a halt a little shy of the still stopped bus! Silence prevailed in the cab for quite a while afterwards as we got ourselves back into normal breathing and heart pumping patterns. Later, we picked up a fellow who SAID he knew where in the hills the farm was located but instinctively I began to question his certitude. I’ve learned to “read” the slight hesitation, the manner of speaking that says, “I THINK I know!” Well, we took the right arm of the road as directed and started DOWN a ‘non-road’. The farm was known to be in a VALLEY! Finally, after much cautious creeping over the ‘trail’ that was narrow, deeply crevassed and precipitous, we stopped to ask a local farmer the whereabouts of our destination. “Oh yes, it’s just a little further on, on the left hand side.” he said. Now, ‘a little further on’ is a very wide open expression down here!<br /><br />We did finally come to the farm and gratefully got out of the truck confines. The family was delightful, the cows, calves, and other animals were friendly and they served us a glass of the universal solvent, Coca Cola, which we greatly appreciated. I had great fun inside the corral taking photos until both Vero and Claudio said, “Please come outside the fence!” I was making them nervous even though the family said the cows were gentle by nature, and so I found them to be! At last the two cows were selected…I’m never sure what the criteria is that is employed. One was chosen because it had no horns!<br /><br />We then went to the “nearest” town, Villa el Carmen, to sign the appropriate papers. Now of course, it was noon time and everyone knows that nothing functions except stomachs during this time. We found a home where a woman was willing to feed us for a reasonable price. It was the family front room and we ate at their table with the family dogs participating. My meal was a gift because it was my birthday, which was thoughtful. Finally, offices opened and papers were signed and we returned to the scene of the “purchase” with the fellows who needed to return there and retrieve their choice of cow. Now it was time to start home….and by a much different route. We had arrived by the wrong route…a real road was very near the farm…so off we went toward home but before we were on the main road a large panel truck came careening around a curve at a far too great velocity. Claudio did a ‘graced’ maneuver and got us out the way of the menacing evil truck….second mini-miracle of the day!<br /><br />Later that evening, as I was relaxing and waiting for a new group of volunteers plus Chepe, with whom I also minister, to arrive at the house I was thoroughly surprised and DELIGHTED to receive a phone call from my sisters at my home base, Goldengate Community in Detroit. I’ve forbidden folks to call because it is too expensive but somehow that command was ignored and I was so glad to hear their voices and greetings. It made my day!<br /><br />Eventually, Chepe and the six new Capuchin volunteers arrived. I sent Chepe out for ice cream and pop and we had a great time chatting and getting to know each other. I had supplied the cake which Cantera gives each of us as we celebrate our day. It was a great ending to a very FULL day. Was I grateful for life? You know the answer!<br /><br />The next day I was surprised by my women’s group in Los Planes de Cuajachillo with a fiesta. The cake was a large pineapple upside down version…very delicious.. and the children had prepared a sign with “Feliz Cumpleanos, Juanita” preceded by lots of balloons! I was gifted with their presence, singing, and…green peppers, tomatoes, a granadilla (a large fruit used to make a delicious juice), fresh milk, a pitahya (a, Nica purple fruit for juice), bananas and red beans. All of the above are products of their little farms and lovingly grown. I was surprised and humbled by their generosity. I had unnerved them prior to our gathering by not arriving, as I always do, on the 1:10pm bus from mid-Managua. They figured I wasn’t coming…and after all the preparations! Well, I arrived about 1:45 by truck with Javier driving. I had the inspiration in the morning to ask him if by chance he was going to Los Planes that afternoon! Well, it’s a good thing I was not traveling by bus…how would I ever have arrived back in Batahola Norte with all the produce gifts!!?? No one had thought of that! All in all it was a great birthday and I give thanks for all the folks in my life…both in the North and in the South…and in some further off places!<br /><br />Life here continues to take its toll on the people as countries pull out of their previous commitments … some choosing to support African nations, others finding themselves tightening belts due to the international financial situation and still others who find it difficult to work with the current political situation.<br /><br />Thanks for each of you and for your interest in our sisters and brothers of Nicaragua and in my journey with them.<br /><br />Love and gratitude,<br />JeanneJeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5137515293158565213.post-22050885917742725892009-08-28T13:14:00.004-05:002009-08-28T13:31:51.919-05:00Nothing and Everything<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzeYa-GxaoaoV_V2jY8ajpVj62qUfwm50P1foPhvjnEZ5JYc8ovhILi6a83UNdv-8juWrRgdEu_XI-vTkXe08vZ-mycxF0tPcBeLttO5oms8aX9IbsSmCjDAK_FDvR_E6f-Qx3DH7YoKH/s1600-h/P1010063.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzeYa-GxaoaoV_V2jY8ajpVj62qUfwm50P1foPhvjnEZ5JYc8ovhILi6a83UNdv-8juWrRgdEu_XI-vTkXe08vZ-mycxF0tPcBeLttO5oms8aX9IbsSmCjDAK_FDvR_E6f-Qx3DH7YoKH/s400/P1010063.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375081289740036690" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; "><strong><i>translating for our Canadian visitors at the inauguration of a new, small rural</i></strong><i> </i><strong><i>library</i></strong></span></div><div><br /></div><div><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: justify; font: normal normal normal 10px/normal 'Times New Roman'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">I thought it about time for me to be dropping by and letting you know I haven´t been washed away with the rain nor melted by the sun. Actually, we´re having less rain this year than usual and that´s a difficult matter for our campesinos and campesinas. The crops of red beans and corn and vegetables need rain during the ´rainy´ season in order to have enough to eat during the six dry months. Hopefully, the rains will become more frequent and penetrating. Well….would you believe, in spite of the sun that was present 10 seconds ago, it´s started to rain!!</span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: justify; font: normal normal normal 10px/normal 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 11px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: justify; font: normal normal normal 10px/normal 'Times New Roman'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">Our poverty situation seems to worsen daily and one wonders how and when that will turn around, but we keep on walking with the people as they discover avenues for having a better, more just life.</span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: justify; font: normal normal normal 10px/normal 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 11px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGP4cAJUiAEWO2wHINo_m8zCcpBr6cBGyvK2AxHhHhvTLordmDw03h7etWg7bGUpKgI52jLafzwlBJf5qvBdCK_9NSSrUA7qOqLUlTnBxNsdQsvnDg61KtVwHPbagQDFq-sINJfCCjPCK/s1600-h/P1010015.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGP4cAJUiAEWO2wHINo_m8zCcpBr6cBGyvK2AxHhHhvTLordmDw03h7etWg7bGUpKgI52jLafzwlBJf5qvBdCK_9NSSrUA7qOqLUlTnBxNsdQsvnDg61KtVwHPbagQDFq-sINJfCCjPCK/s400/P1010015.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375081281250452498" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma; font-weight: bold; "><i>moving along with the pregnant cow project</i></span></span></div></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, serif; ">There aren´t many amazing things to report, but then life in Nicaragua, like life in the States has its very ordinary times and I think that´s a good thing. Otherwise, what would be éxtraordinary´???? I have been doing my usual activities…visits to the farm lands, meetings with folks, visits to two different hospitals on the weekends, entertaining our neighborhood children with my accent, spoiling the area dogs, etc. etc. I will be going to the annual fiesta in Los Planes de Cuajachillo 2 of the Virgin of Nancite. I wrote about this last year in a posting and it´s hard to believe that it´s a year already since that first experience. The people are waiting to see if I´m responsible for the rain during the procession last year! It seems the tradition is that it ALWAYS rains before and after the several kilometer procession but never DURING it. Well….last year it POURED all during the procession! If that happens again this year, I may be considered the cause….such power! Anyway, it makes for good laughter!</span></span></div><div> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, serif; font-size: medium; ">We now have new volunteers working with us and the Cultural Center in our neighborhood. These are all young women from the States….Amanda from Fargo, ND, Greta from Jefferson, WV, and three whom I´ve yet to meet who are part of the group sponsored by the Capuchins. I had supper with Greta and Amanda a couple of nights ago and they are absolutely amazing. They have finished college and want to do something to make a difference and so they´re volunteering two years of their young adulthood here in Nicaragua. And….they´re good cooks to boot!! We had great conversation getting to know each other and I´m so impressed with their open and dedicated spirit. The three ¨Capuchinas¨ are in language school in Granada south of Managua and will be back here in two more weeks. I find the young folks a source of encouragement and life for me and I´m grateful for the privilege of being connected to them and their journey.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Julie has returned from her CSJ meetings in Los Angeles and Dianne has been in Louisiana for a week now and will return on the 14</span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">th</span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> of September. So….I´m in charge of the casa and though I miss Dianne, the space is good too. Dianne will come back with ´goodies´ and that´s always fun…a bit of Christmas in the middle of September!!</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Last night I was in contact via SKYPE with my Renewed Local Community of CSJs and it is such a joy to be able to see and hear my close friends. I don´t get to share the meal….however, you can´t have everything! Technology is such a gift and I marvel at what one is able to do these days.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Tonight we will go to our main theater and hear our very own Batahola Norte Chorale as they sing various arias from some operas. It´s truly amazing what they can do. These are kids from the barrio who have been taught to read and understand music and have incredible talent! I will attend with a friend who came here as a Peace Corps. worker and never left. She´s from ??? (actually, I don´t know where she was born and raised!) and is so relaxed and enjoyable to be with. She is a very important figure in the health sector working with the poor in Central America and beyond.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Having nothing more exciting to report, I´ll close, being grateful for each of you and all you do to make this world a better place. Thanks for your prayerful and monetary support. </span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">May all be well with you and your families and friends.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 11.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Your sister, </span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 10.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> Jeanne</span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;font-size:85%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:10px;"><br /></span></span></div></div>Jeannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04703310010226423442noreply@blogger.com0