Well, let me catch you up on the last couple of days before we head out (no internet access for a couple of days)...
Thursday was a day for tying things together. There were a few tasks that needed to be finished and several smaller projects that we did. With the painting project completed on Wednesday, I was given the task to lead the "gravel sidewalk" crew. This didn't take very long so we quickly moved to cleaning up the yard behind "Maintenance Dave's" house. Amy finished up painting the trees with the kids for the first part of the morning and then moved over to helping with the lawn. Justin was pretty much done by lunch so he got the afternoon off. Lauren continued with tree painting. Now, when I say we cleaned up the yard behind Dave's house I mean we tilled up the entire thing (which I did) and then picked out rock, cement and tile from under the ground. We had a TON of tile and cement. I don't know what the people who lived there before were thinking but it was just weird to have all of that stuff buried like that. Anyway, by the end of the day we had that all done and found out today that they actually planted grass seed there today.
After that HOT project was done I was dripping in sweat (like just about everyone else) so we all headed straight for the ocean and walked right in...clothes and all. It felt sooooooo good. After that it was time to do the dance of joy after completing our work.
After dinner we headed into Ponce for what we thought was a jazz festival. We thought this because last Thursday there was a jazz band down there and they said that they played there every Thursday but we found out last night that it wasn't every Thursday just the first Thursday of the month. So, that was pretty disappointing but we just walked around town did some souvenir shopping, got some "King's Cream" and came home.
Today was our last day and our day off. We headed into Ponce at 7:30AM to catch the ferry over to Coffin Island. It was a beautiful island with a great beach and many fish to see while snorkling. We walked up to the lighthouse on the highest point of the island and had a great view of the island. After swimming, hiking and swimming some more we came back, had dinner and went to the mall. Now we are getting ready to come home. Amy is packing, Lauren and Justin are playing golf and I am here writing this for you.
Tomorrow we are heading out early to go into old San Juan to see on of the old forts there and walk around the shops. After that it is on to the airport and home.
Thanks for following our adventure. It has truly been a blessing for our family to experience this together. The kids did a great job working (actually better than I thought they would) and I believe we are all better for taking this trip. The Lord did some great things in us, through us and despite us on this trip. We met some great people here and I would come back in a heartbeat to help this camp and the people of Puerto Rico.
Thanks to all of you for your financial and prayer support throughout our journey. We are truly blessed to have family and friends like you who support us in this way. I do believe that the Lord used us for his purpose on this trip and that we were all meant to be here at this time and at this place. We love you all!
To God Be The Glory,
Mike (for the fam)
Friday, August 13, 2010
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Carbon Copy
Well, if you thought that you missed something by me not posting anything yesterday you didn't. Today was pretty much a carbon copy of yesterday. The weather was pretty much the same - mid-90's, I painted the staff housing all day yesterday and today (a project which we finished by the way), Amy worked on power washing, picking up paint chips, digging a trench, laying gravel and painting trees. Lauren painted, helped with digging the ditch and laying gravel and Justin did some painting, helped Lisa put poison on the fire ant hills (a job which he loved because he saw the ants take the poision down into the hills) and went into Ponce with maintenance Dave to help him pick up screens for the windows in the chapel.
Tonight for dinner we went back near the location of the infamous waterfall to the Starlight Cafe. We had some authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. It was very tasty. Amy and I particularly enjoyed the Pina Colada's (they came highly recommended).
After that it was back home for some more euchre for me, and golf (card game) for Justin . Amy didn't feel too well so she went to bed as soon as we got back from dinner (all of the food was fried so I don't think it set too well). Lauren played a few hands of golf and then went to bed too; she was pretty tired. Justin is still playing golf as I type at 11:00PM and would probably play all night if I let him. He WILL NOT go to bed before anyone else. He doesn't want to miss anything (which is just how I was as a kid).
Well, I think that is all for now. Not sure what tomorrow will hold with the painting and trench/gravel projects are done so that will be fun to be able to do something different. The plan is to tie up loose ends on the projects tomorrow then head into Ponce after dinner to catch a little of the jazz festival downtown, shop and whatever people want to do. On Friday we finish off the trip with a little rest and relaxation on Coffin Island.
Until tomorrow,
Mike (for the fam)
Tonight for dinner we went back near the location of the infamous waterfall to the Starlight Cafe. We had some authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. It was very tasty. Amy and I particularly enjoyed the Pina Colada's (they came highly recommended).
After that it was back home for some more euchre for me, and golf (card game) for Justin . Amy didn't feel too well so she went to bed as soon as we got back from dinner (all of the food was fried so I don't think it set too well). Lauren played a few hands of golf and then went to bed too; she was pretty tired. Justin is still playing golf as I type at 11:00PM and would probably play all night if I let him. He WILL NOT go to bed before anyone else. He doesn't want to miss anything (which is just how I was as a kid).
Well, I think that is all for now. Not sure what tomorrow will hold with the painting and trench/gravel projects are done so that will be fun to be able to do something different. The plan is to tie up loose ends on the projects tomorrow then head into Ponce after dinner to catch a little of the jazz festival downtown, shop and whatever people want to do. On Friday we finish off the trip with a little rest and relaxation on Coffin Island.
Until tomorrow,
Mike (for the fam)
Monday, August 9, 2010
Back At It
Well, with the adventures of yesterday behind us we began another day with great anticipation of getting back to "normal". By normal I mean getting back to work on the projects around camp.
I must admit that the day started off a little rough for me. I found it difficult to get to sleep last night. It seemed that my adrenaline was still going from the events of the day and parts of my body began to hurt coming off of the rush. I woke up this morning with bruises from my pec, to bicep down to my forearm on my left side. I believe this occurred when I slipped down the rock face saving Lexi from falling into the water. Funny how those things don't hurt until everything is over. Amy had some bruising on her legs and arms as well.
After breakfast we got back to work. After calling our eye doctor, Amy found a Lenscrafters in the local mall and found a pair of glasses on the clearance rack (a couple of scratches on the frame) and was able to be back at the camp, able to see, by the early afternoon (total optical expense - $120; surving a flash flood and being rescued by people who don't speak English - priceless). I assumed the "foreman" duties on the painting crew and we managed to get much of the house(s) primed and finished coated. It looks like I will be on that for the remainder of the week. You know me, once I start a project I have to see it out until it is completed. I wont' feel like I accomplished anything if we leave and that house isn't done. Lauren and Justin helped on various jobs during the day from picking up paint chips to helping prime the house.
After work it was time for a shower and a frappe from El Frappe. My first frappe of the trip...strawberry/pina colada if you were curious. After frappes we had dinner and called dad to wish him a happy 70th birthday (happy birthday again, Dad). At 7:00PM we had a short meeting and the dialogue centered around our weaknesses and how God can do great things through not only our strengths (on which we tend to focus) but also on our weaknesses. One of the stories out of yesterday was that as we were stranded on the rocks Julio, the program director of the camp who went with us to the rain forest, was able to witness to some of the local kids who were stranded as well. It was one of those stories that you sit back and think, "you know if it takes being stranded on a rock for a few hours so someone comes to know the Lord" I'm okay with that.
All in all a pretty normal day in our lives here. Hopefully I sleep better tonight. Can't wait to see those bruises tomorrow :-)
Love to you all,
Mike (for the fam)
I must admit that the day started off a little rough for me. I found it difficult to get to sleep last night. It seemed that my adrenaline was still going from the events of the day and parts of my body began to hurt coming off of the rush. I woke up this morning with bruises from my pec, to bicep down to my forearm on my left side. I believe this occurred when I slipped down the rock face saving Lexi from falling into the water. Funny how those things don't hurt until everything is over. Amy had some bruising on her legs and arms as well.
After breakfast we got back to work. After calling our eye doctor, Amy found a Lenscrafters in the local mall and found a pair of glasses on the clearance rack (a couple of scratches on the frame) and was able to be back at the camp, able to see, by the early afternoon (total optical expense - $120; surving a flash flood and being rescued by people who don't speak English - priceless). I assumed the "foreman" duties on the painting crew and we managed to get much of the house(s) primed and finished coated. It looks like I will be on that for the remainder of the week. You know me, once I start a project I have to see it out until it is completed. I wont' feel like I accomplished anything if we leave and that house isn't done. Lauren and Justin helped on various jobs during the day from picking up paint chips to helping prime the house.
After work it was time for a shower and a frappe from El Frappe. My first frappe of the trip...strawberry/pina colada if you were curious. After frappes we had dinner and called dad to wish him a happy 70th birthday (happy birthday again, Dad). At 7:00PM we had a short meeting and the dialogue centered around our weaknesses and how God can do great things through not only our strengths (on which we tend to focus) but also on our weaknesses. One of the stories out of yesterday was that as we were stranded on the rocks Julio, the program director of the camp who went with us to the rain forest, was able to witness to some of the local kids who were stranded as well. It was one of those stories that you sit back and think, "you know if it takes being stranded on a rock for a few hours so someone comes to know the Lord" I'm okay with that.
All in all a pretty normal day in our lives here. Hopefully I sleep better tonight. Can't wait to see those bruises tomorrow :-)
Love to you all,
Mike (for the fam)
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Rain Forest and the Flash Flood
First, before you read this let me assure you that everyone on the team is alright. I can't take credit for all the content in this. This is the blog that went on the FBC blog as well. It was easier to get all the perspectives into one blog than try to remember everything myself. Let the story begin........
No one knew what adventures, lessons, and deliverance God would provide. The team led the worship this morning at a Grace Church in the barrio. Erin, Sam, Mike, Justin, John M. Kathy M., Amber F., Lexi and Lauren led the special music. Sam and Johnny M. gave an object lesson. Amy, Kathy D., and Sam shared their personal testimonies. Dan gave the message. Several individuals in audience commented on how the testimonies spoke to them personally. After the service there were many hugs and other expressions of love and appreciation.
After the service it was back to the camp for a quick lunch and prep for a day trip to the rain forest and the much anticipated jump off the 30 foot cliff. We arrived at the jump around 2:30pm. A good portion of the team scaled down the wet and mossy rocks along the falls, swam across the current, and traversed up the cliff edge for the privilege to jump off the 20 and 30 foot plateaus. Troyce demonstrated no fear by jumping off the 30 foot ledge five times. All were having fun until the water started turning brown. Julio, a full time staff at the camp, quickly encouraged everyone to seek dry land as soon as possible. In a matter of a few short minutes, the falls more than tripled in size. The current became unmanageable. Amber F., Erin, Lexi, Shari, and Sam, already at the bottom of the falls, started climbing the rocks along side the falls. Mike came down the falls to assist them. The water continued to rise. The holds and crevices quickly became submerged. Amber F., Shari, and Mike, ¼ of the way up the falls, became surrounded by rushing water. Unable to continue to climb they slide down the falls into the strong current. Thank God all where strong swimmers and were able to beat the current and make it to a large eddy. Once they reached the shore line they climbed a rock edge and waited on higher ground. Now safe from the rising river they found themselves trapped next to a slippery and steep mountain. The team was safe for the time being but was divided. Mike, Amber F., and Shari where stranded on one side of the river. Aubree, Lauren, Amy, Troyce, Dwayne, and Julio climbed the cliff edge along with 13 other Puerto Rican’s. Both groups found themselves trapped with a steep mountain behind them and the raging river below. The remaining portion of the PR team gathered on top of the mountain to pray.
John M. called Pastor John at 4:50pm and immediately initiated the prayer chain. The well trained Puerto Rican fire and rescue arrived in the high elevation quickly and started the rescue operation. With the rescue helicopter scrambled and in route the two rescue teams began their work. The first team set up the climbing ropes and scaled down the side of the mountain where Amber F., Mike and Shari waited. After about an hour and a half the rescuers were able to get a harness down to them and Mike and Shari were hoisted to safety. A rescue worker made his way to Amber and they clawed their way up the mountain, through the jungle, without the hoist and ropes (and with only one shoe). Finally safe, these three were reunited with the other group already on the mountain top having only a few scrapes and bruises to show for their experience.
The other rescue team began the trek around the mountain to help the 19 others stranded on the cliff edge. The group on the cliff was exposed to the open air and huddled together to keep warm. Once the rescue team arrived the group began to hike barefooted across the other side of the mountain. The rescuers made a temporary trail but the way was still tricky. The group climbed up the rock edge. The way turned into a wet, muddy path, full of leaves. On two occasions the make shift path was too steep to walk. The group needed climbing ropes to avoid falling back. At 6:00 this group finally made it to a road. Two hours after the flash flood the group arrived at the road where rescue vehicles were waiting. They transported the group back to where the other two groups waited prayerfully. Fortunately the rescue helicopter was not needed.
Later we found out that the heavy rains caused the dam higher up the river to automatically release. This created the flash flood conditions (which covered the main bridge up to the mountain; our only exit). Even though the river was still at flood stage as the team traveled back to the camp, the water had receded enough to pass over the bridge for a safe return to camp.
This was supposed to be the night when we were going to the Starlite Café (the Puerto Rican restaurant in town). Given the events of the afternoon we voted to come back to camp, shower up, dry off and order pizza from Pizza Hut and hang out in the cafeteria.
All in all an eventful day, to say the least. But the Lord protected us all and the sum of our casualties were a few bumps and bruises, Amber F.’s lost water shoe and Amy’s glasses (I just think that she didn't like them any more and this was a good excuse to get new ones).
Praise the Lord!
Mike (and the rest of the FBC PR team)
No one knew what adventures, lessons, and deliverance God would provide. The team led the worship this morning at a Grace Church in the barrio. Erin, Sam, Mike, Justin, John M. Kathy M., Amber F., Lexi and Lauren led the special music. Sam and Johnny M. gave an object lesson. Amy, Kathy D., and Sam shared their personal testimonies. Dan gave the message. Several individuals in audience commented on how the testimonies spoke to them personally. After the service there were many hugs and other expressions of love and appreciation.
After the service it was back to the camp for a quick lunch and prep for a day trip to the rain forest and the much anticipated jump off the 30 foot cliff. We arrived at the jump around 2:30pm. A good portion of the team scaled down the wet and mossy rocks along the falls, swam across the current, and traversed up the cliff edge for the privilege to jump off the 20 and 30 foot plateaus. Troyce demonstrated no fear by jumping off the 30 foot ledge five times. All were having fun until the water started turning brown. Julio, a full time staff at the camp, quickly encouraged everyone to seek dry land as soon as possible. In a matter of a few short minutes, the falls more than tripled in size. The current became unmanageable. Amber F., Erin, Lexi, Shari, and Sam, already at the bottom of the falls, started climbing the rocks along side the falls. Mike came down the falls to assist them. The water continued to rise. The holds and crevices quickly became submerged. Amber F., Shari, and Mike, ¼ of the way up the falls, became surrounded by rushing water. Unable to continue to climb they slide down the falls into the strong current. Thank God all where strong swimmers and were able to beat the current and make it to a large eddy. Once they reached the shore line they climbed a rock edge and waited on higher ground. Now safe from the rising river they found themselves trapped next to a slippery and steep mountain. The team was safe for the time being but was divided. Mike, Amber F., and Shari where stranded on one side of the river. Aubree, Lauren, Amy, Troyce, Dwayne, and Julio climbed the cliff edge along with 13 other Puerto Rican’s. Both groups found themselves trapped with a steep mountain behind them and the raging river below. The remaining portion of the PR team gathered on top of the mountain to pray.
John M. called Pastor John at 4:50pm and immediately initiated the prayer chain. The well trained Puerto Rican fire and rescue arrived in the high elevation quickly and started the rescue operation. With the rescue helicopter scrambled and in route the two rescue teams began their work. The first team set up the climbing ropes and scaled down the side of the mountain where Amber F., Mike and Shari waited. After about an hour and a half the rescuers were able to get a harness down to them and Mike and Shari were hoisted to safety. A rescue worker made his way to Amber and they clawed their way up the mountain, through the jungle, without the hoist and ropes (and with only one shoe). Finally safe, these three were reunited with the other group already on the mountain top having only a few scrapes and bruises to show for their experience.
The other rescue team began the trek around the mountain to help the 19 others stranded on the cliff edge. The group on the cliff was exposed to the open air and huddled together to keep warm. Once the rescue team arrived the group began to hike barefooted across the other side of the mountain. The rescuers made a temporary trail but the way was still tricky. The group climbed up the rock edge. The way turned into a wet, muddy path, full of leaves. On two occasions the make shift path was too steep to walk. The group needed climbing ropes to avoid falling back. At 6:00 this group finally made it to a road. Two hours after the flash flood the group arrived at the road where rescue vehicles were waiting. They transported the group back to where the other two groups waited prayerfully. Fortunately the rescue helicopter was not needed.
Later we found out that the heavy rains caused the dam higher up the river to automatically release. This created the flash flood conditions (which covered the main bridge up to the mountain; our only exit). Even though the river was still at flood stage as the team traveled back to the camp, the water had receded enough to pass over the bridge for a safe return to camp.
This was supposed to be the night when we were going to the Starlite Café (the Puerto Rican restaurant in town). Given the events of the afternoon we voted to come back to camp, shower up, dry off and order pizza from Pizza Hut and hang out in the cafeteria.
All in all an eventful day, to say the least. But the Lord protected us all and the sum of our casualties were a few bumps and bruises, Amber F.’s lost water shoe and Amy’s glasses (I just think that she didn't like them any more and this was a good excuse to get new ones).
Praise the Lord!
Mike (and the rest of the FBC PR team)
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Resting On The Sixth Day? Can They Do That?
Well, I know it is not theologically correct, but on the sixth day the Puerto Rico team rested. As I arrived late yesterday afternoon I could tell that the troops were a bit worn out. The heat can get to you very easily and without a place to get away from it can really cause problems physically. As the group discussed what to do today the consensus was to use today as a recovery day and hit the ground running again on Monday.
So, after lunch today we all went into Ponce and did some walking around the city taking in some of the sights. We were in downtown Ponce for a couple of hours and then headed over to the Ponce harbor to walk on the boardwalk. There were some shops, places to eat and Justin and I got some sardines and fed the fish, pelicans and seagulls. I actually got the seagulls to take the fish right out of my hand as I held it over the side railing over the water. It was so fast that I almost didn't know that he had taken it. What I really wanted was an alka seltzer (those of you who are from the south know what happens when you feed a seagull on of those.....I hate seagulls).
Anyway, we got back to the camp around 5:45PM (just in time for dinner) and had beans and rice with sausage in it....very tasty! After dinner just about everyone went for a dip in the ocean (my first time). It was like bath water and very refreshing after a hot day. After that it was time to hit the shower and head into the dining hall for some card games, which is where everyone is right now.
Tomorrow morning we are taking the service at John and Kerry Cox's church. We will be doing music, giving testimonies, an object lesson for the kids and a "mini-sermon". After church we will come back for lunch and then hit the rain forest for the afternoon before returning tomorrow evening.
So, that gets you up to speed on today and tomorrow. I will let all of you know how tomorrow goes when we get back tomorrow night. Please pray for all of those involved with the service tomorrow. I know that there are some (like Amy) who are a little nervous about getting up in front of the people to give their testimony.
For pictures and other team member perspectives please visit the FBC Puerto Rico Team blog at:
www.fbcpr10.blogspot.com
Until tomorrow!!
Mike (for the Riemersma family)
So, after lunch today we all went into Ponce and did some walking around the city taking in some of the sights. We were in downtown Ponce for a couple of hours and then headed over to the Ponce harbor to walk on the boardwalk. There were some shops, places to eat and Justin and I got some sardines and fed the fish, pelicans and seagulls. I actually got the seagulls to take the fish right out of my hand as I held it over the side railing over the water. It was so fast that I almost didn't know that he had taken it. What I really wanted was an alka seltzer (those of you who are from the south know what happens when you feed a seagull on of those.....I hate seagulls).
Anyway, we got back to the camp around 5:45PM (just in time for dinner) and had beans and rice with sausage in it....very tasty! After dinner just about everyone went for a dip in the ocean (my first time). It was like bath water and very refreshing after a hot day. After that it was time to hit the shower and head into the dining hall for some card games, which is where everyone is right now.
Tomorrow morning we are taking the service at John and Kerry Cox's church. We will be doing music, giving testimonies, an object lesson for the kids and a "mini-sermon". After church we will come back for lunch and then hit the rain forest for the afternoon before returning tomorrow evening.
So, that gets you up to speed on today and tomorrow. I will let all of you know how tomorrow goes when we get back tomorrow night. Please pray for all of those involved with the service tomorrow. I know that there are some (like Amy) who are a little nervous about getting up in front of the people to give their testimony.
For pictures and other team member perspectives please visit the FBC Puerto Rico Team blog at:
www.fbcpr10.blogspot.com
Until tomorrow!!
Mike (for the Riemersma family)
Back In The Game!!
Well, I figured I would get something posted here. As Amy said I arrived late yesterday afternoon. I actually got less than 2 hours of sleep but I didn't want to get the idea that I wanted a "pitty party".
I didn't sleep on the plane to PR because I was sitting next to a girl that was just about Lauren's age and she had on a TON of those bracelets that are in shapes of various things (I forget what you call them but most of you know what I am talking about). She put them on her tray table (which was not in it's forward and upright locked position) and we went through helping each other with the English and Spanish words for all the shapes (she didn't know any English....and for the most part I do so it worked out quite well).
After a GREAT night sleep I got up for breakfast with everyone and then went back to bed (which was just what I needed). After I got up I took a shower (which really doesn't make much difference because I start to sweat after I get out...but I do it for the betterment of the team) and now I am back to my old self. We just finished going over who was going to do what at the church service so i thought I would get you caught up.
Justin came to get me for lunch so I will say goodbye for now. After lunch we are headed for Ponce for a while.
TTYL,
Mike
I didn't sleep on the plane to PR because I was sitting next to a girl that was just about Lauren's age and she had on a TON of those bracelets that are in shapes of various things (I forget what you call them but most of you know what I am talking about). She put them on her tray table (which was not in it's forward and upright locked position) and we went through helping each other with the English and Spanish words for all the shapes (she didn't know any English....and for the most part I do so it worked out quite well).
After a GREAT night sleep I got up for breakfast with everyone and then went back to bed (which was just what I needed). After I got up I took a shower (which really doesn't make much difference because I start to sweat after I get out...but I do it for the betterment of the team) and now I am back to my old self. We just finished going over who was going to do what at the church service so i thought I would get you caught up.
Justin came to get me for lunch so I will say goodbye for now. After lunch we are headed for Ponce for a while.
TTYL,
Mike
Another day in paradise...aka...Puerto Rico
First off I want to apologize for not posting every day. Our work schedules are crazy and when I do have a moments chance I have to take the computer over to the office (oficina) to get connection. The only draw back is that there are a TON of mosquitoes and gnats there and I just get eaten alive. I will try and post every day, but sometimes I just can't cope with ALL the buzzing. Some of the other group have wireless cards that they use and they are able to be in the comfort of the dining hall. Please go to our church's website for more updates as well as photos:
www.fbcpr10.blogspot.com
Friday: We were up and working by 9am. I had gotten alot of sun on thursday, so the maintenence guy took me off of powerwashing in the sun to an office job in the air conditioning. (suffering for the Lord). Lauren was really suffering because she was on her hands and knees picking up the paintchips out of the lawns that I had knocked off with the powerwasher. Justin was with me checking out a BIG box of markers to see if they were dried up or not and he was playing with the Marshall's kids.
Michael arrived in the afternoon. Dwayne Huff and myself, Lauren and Justin all drove to SanJuan (1hr 15min) away to pick him up. It was great to see him, but he was exhausted. Poor guy only got 2 hours of sleep the night before and no sleep on the plane. So happy he is here finally!! Pray that he gets caught up on his sleep.
Just a side note our van just pulled up and I have moved inside of it. PTL!!! I was being SWARMED with gnats while writing this blog. It is DRIVING ME CRAZY!!! Please pray for me I am on the verge of cracking with all these creatures!!!
In the evening (8ish) we went to the barrio for a youth group meeting. There were about 17 kids there and the ages ranged from 10-18. Erin, Lexi, Aubree, Sam, Johnny, Troyce, Lauren and Justin, Michael and I all went. It was so nice to interact with kids. Justin really enjoyed playing that games (tag). Then we came back around 10pm and just hung out for the rest of the evening and got to bed after some card games.
Saturday: We are having the day off today. We are taking it easy for the morning and then after lunch we are heading into Ponce, PR for the afternoon. I will try and post tonight if I can get a van again.
We are all very well and coping with the heat. I guess the hardest thing for me is all the mosquitoes and gnats. It is hard to concentrate. Also, we are preparing for the church service tomorrow so please pray for wisdom and the right words to say tomorrow.
Love you all and PLEASE, PLEASE go on the other blog to check out in more detail of the goings on here.
Talk to y'all soon!!!!
Amy
www.fbcpr10.blogspot.com
Friday: We were up and working by 9am. I had gotten alot of sun on thursday, so the maintenence guy took me off of powerwashing in the sun to an office job in the air conditioning. (suffering for the Lord). Lauren was really suffering because she was on her hands and knees picking up the paintchips out of the lawns that I had knocked off with the powerwasher. Justin was with me checking out a BIG box of markers to see if they were dried up or not and he was playing with the Marshall's kids.
Michael arrived in the afternoon. Dwayne Huff and myself, Lauren and Justin all drove to SanJuan (1hr 15min) away to pick him up. It was great to see him, but he was exhausted. Poor guy only got 2 hours of sleep the night before and no sleep on the plane. So happy he is here finally!! Pray that he gets caught up on his sleep.
Just a side note our van just pulled up and I have moved inside of it. PTL!!! I was being SWARMED with gnats while writing this blog. It is DRIVING ME CRAZY!!! Please pray for me I am on the verge of cracking with all these creatures!!!
In the evening (8ish) we went to the barrio for a youth group meeting. There were about 17 kids there and the ages ranged from 10-18. Erin, Lexi, Aubree, Sam, Johnny, Troyce, Lauren and Justin, Michael and I all went. It was so nice to interact with kids. Justin really enjoyed playing that games (tag). Then we came back around 10pm and just hung out for the rest of the evening and got to bed after some card games.
Saturday: We are having the day off today. We are taking it easy for the morning and then after lunch we are heading into Ponce, PR for the afternoon. I will try and post tonight if I can get a van again.
We are all very well and coping with the heat. I guess the hardest thing for me is all the mosquitoes and gnats. It is hard to concentrate. Also, we are preparing for the church service tomorrow so please pray for wisdom and the right words to say tomorrow.
Love you all and PLEASE, PLEASE go on the other blog to check out in more detail of the goings on here.
Talk to y'all soon!!!!
Amy
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Wed. August 4, 2010
Good morning....it is Thursday morning. I wanted to give a recap of yesterday's adventures. We started our workday at 9am with a short meeting with Maintenence Dave. He is a retired man that has come down with his wife to help with maintaining the camp. I was again on the power washing team. I got a new partner, Dwayne Huff. It is a long and slow process, so I have a feeling that this will be my job till we leave. Not to bad because I get wet to cool off. Lauren worked on helping cleaning out the candy store, and she helped put wooden benches into the ground. Justin helped put benches into the ground, took clothes to be sold into the barrio, helped clean out the candy store. The kids are really enjoying the working and are NOT complaining about the work OR the heat. After lunch we have about 30 minute free time, so naturally they want to go swimming. The water is sooooo warm.
After the work afternoon we went to go get frappe (smoothies) at a local stand. It is about a mile away from the camp. Very delicious and refreshing after working so hard.
In the evening we toured WCGB radio station, which is right on the camp property. Lawrence Trumbower and his wife Barbara run the station. They are such sweet people and really enjoy reaching the Puerto Rican people through the airwaves.
That is about it for the day. We must have had quite a bit of rain during the night (I never heard it) because there are HUGE puddles of water around. Guess the lady that does the watering doesn't need to worry about her job today.
Today (Thursday) has greeted us with sunshine and birds chirping. It is truly beautiful down here!! We are so blessed to be able to help this wonderful camp. Everyone is well. I ask for prayer for the mosquitos. They LOVE, LOVE, LOVE me and the feeling is NOT mutual!!! I have tons of bites and my ankles are quite swollen from them. The kids are doing great and sleeping like rocks each night.
Thanks again for the prayers for us. Also, please keep Michael in your prayers today as he flies home from Montana and then on to see us tomorrow morning. We are SO looking forward to him coming down here and experiencing this with us.
Take care and love you all!!
Amy
After the work afternoon we went to go get frappe (smoothies) at a local stand. It is about a mile away from the camp. Very delicious and refreshing after working so hard.
In the evening we toured WCGB radio station, which is right on the camp property. Lawrence Trumbower and his wife Barbara run the station. They are such sweet people and really enjoy reaching the Puerto Rican people through the airwaves.
That is about it for the day. We must have had quite a bit of rain during the night (I never heard it) because there are HUGE puddles of water around. Guess the lady that does the watering doesn't need to worry about her job today.
Today (Thursday) has greeted us with sunshine and birds chirping. It is truly beautiful down here!! We are so blessed to be able to help this wonderful camp. Everyone is well. I ask for prayer for the mosquitos. They LOVE, LOVE, LOVE me and the feeling is NOT mutual!!! I have tons of bites and my ankles are quite swollen from them. The kids are doing great and sleeping like rocks each night.
Thanks again for the prayers for us. Also, please keep Michael in your prayers today as he flies home from Montana and then on to see us tomorrow morning. We are SO looking forward to him coming down here and experiencing this with us.
Take care and love you all!!
Amy
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
The fun-filled first day
Hola,
Things are going great around here!!! This is the first chance I have had to get on to update the blog. We arrived yesterday at 2:30pm and all the luggage arrived safely. We then drove to the camp and arrived at 6pm. The staff was ready for us for supper and had delicious pork chops and mashed potatoes. After dinner we went out to WalMart for some items that were not brought down with us. It was hilarious watching me try to communicate with someone asking them where the OFF was. We finally found it and let me tell you....YOU NEED BUGSPRAY!!!!! The mosquitos come out around dusk and will literally swam you and could carry you away. I honestly have never seen so many of them. Needless to say, I have some pretty sweet looking welts on my legs.
Justin and I are sleeping in separate sleeping quarters. This is because Michael is not down here yet and in case he needs me I am right there. It was hilarious last night laying there in our beds and Justin spotting a gecko on the wall. He freaked out and I calmed him down and we went to sleep. Well, guess he didn't calm down because he crawled into my bed and was shaking like a leaf. I decided to let him sleep with me instead of making a big deal about it a 2 in the morning.
We got up about 7 this morning and had breakfast at 8. We have had delicious food so far!! Most meals I have gotten seconds. Breakfast is served at 8, lunch at noon and supper at 6pm.
The first day of work was great!! We had work crews doing it all.....powerwashing, weeding, screen repairs, dumpster dancing, painting roofs, digging holes, watering grass, mending fences. I was on the powerwashing team. Lauren mended fences and Justin was with the camp directors kids today. Jon (camp director) needed Justin to just hang out with his kids (age 10, 7, 5). Of course, Justin was happy with that work detail. I know that y'all are probably wondering what dumpster dancing is. Well, the camp tries to get as much garbage into the dumpster as possible, so they have people take cardboard boxes and jump on the garbage to pack it down. Pretty disgusting job and smelly too. High 5 goes out to Lisa and Amber for tackling that job today. I am wondering when it will be my turn. We had one heat related injury today. It is extremely hot down here. We are encouraged to lather up with sunscreen and take plenty of water breaks. Even with that Dave got overheated (he was powerwashing the roof for the afternoon). He is doing well now (9:30pm). So I may have lost my powerwashing partner for the week. So we will see. Please pray for the team as we need to pace ourselves with the heat.
After the work day (4:00) we headed out to the beach to cool off. The waves were crashing all around and it was quite refreshing. By the way, when we are in the dining hall at night we can hear the waves crashing. So cool!! Another cool thing is that they don't have many lights on at night, so you can see TONS of stars. Pray that the mosquitos will subside and we can spend more time outside enjoying God's creation at night.
Tonight while we were in our debriefing meeting, I stood up and screamed. A RAT came through a hole in the screen and scurried off. If that wasn't bad enough....another rat was found in the women's dorm. The ladies are NOT happy campers. Justin is now concerned that one will come into our room, so I have a feeling that he will find his way into my bed tonight.
Well, that is it for our first day. As I type this we have a group of people playing Uno in the dining hall that is a balmy 90 degrees (I am maybe exagerating by about 5 degrees). But for the most part, heat has not been an issue. We are having a wonderful time and so excited to see what the Lord will have us do for tomorrow.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for praying for us. We really appreciate your thoughts and prayers. Lauren and Justin (and me too) are really looking forward to Friday when Michael arrives. It will be great for us to be a family again and serving the Lord down here. I am trying to get on to update the blog daily, but sometimes the internet just doesn't cooperate. I will blog as much as I can.
Talk to y'all again real soon!! Amy
Things are going great around here!!! This is the first chance I have had to get on to update the blog. We arrived yesterday at 2:30pm and all the luggage arrived safely. We then drove to the camp and arrived at 6pm. The staff was ready for us for supper and had delicious pork chops and mashed potatoes. After dinner we went out to WalMart for some items that were not brought down with us. It was hilarious watching me try to communicate with someone asking them where the OFF was. We finally found it and let me tell you....YOU NEED BUGSPRAY!!!!! The mosquitos come out around dusk and will literally swam you and could carry you away. I honestly have never seen so many of them. Needless to say, I have some pretty sweet looking welts on my legs.
Justin and I are sleeping in separate sleeping quarters. This is because Michael is not down here yet and in case he needs me I am right there. It was hilarious last night laying there in our beds and Justin spotting a gecko on the wall. He freaked out and I calmed him down and we went to sleep. Well, guess he didn't calm down because he crawled into my bed and was shaking like a leaf. I decided to let him sleep with me instead of making a big deal about it a 2 in the morning.
We got up about 7 this morning and had breakfast at 8. We have had delicious food so far!! Most meals I have gotten seconds. Breakfast is served at 8, lunch at noon and supper at 6pm.
The first day of work was great!! We had work crews doing it all.....powerwashing, weeding, screen repairs, dumpster dancing, painting roofs, digging holes, watering grass, mending fences. I was on the powerwashing team. Lauren mended fences and Justin was with the camp directors kids today. Jon (camp director) needed Justin to just hang out with his kids (age 10, 7, 5). Of course, Justin was happy with that work detail. I know that y'all are probably wondering what dumpster dancing is. Well, the camp tries to get as much garbage into the dumpster as possible, so they have people take cardboard boxes and jump on the garbage to pack it down. Pretty disgusting job and smelly too. High 5 goes out to Lisa and Amber for tackling that job today. I am wondering when it will be my turn. We had one heat related injury today. It is extremely hot down here. We are encouraged to lather up with sunscreen and take plenty of water breaks. Even with that Dave got overheated (he was powerwashing the roof for the afternoon). He is doing well now (9:30pm). So I may have lost my powerwashing partner for the week. So we will see. Please pray for the team as we need to pace ourselves with the heat.
After the work day (4:00) we headed out to the beach to cool off. The waves were crashing all around and it was quite refreshing. By the way, when we are in the dining hall at night we can hear the waves crashing. So cool!! Another cool thing is that they don't have many lights on at night, so you can see TONS of stars. Pray that the mosquitos will subside and we can spend more time outside enjoying God's creation at night.
Tonight while we were in our debriefing meeting, I stood up and screamed. A RAT came through a hole in the screen and scurried off. If that wasn't bad enough....another rat was found in the women's dorm. The ladies are NOT happy campers. Justin is now concerned that one will come into our room, so I have a feeling that he will find his way into my bed tonight.
Well, that is it for our first day. As I type this we have a group of people playing Uno in the dining hall that is a balmy 90 degrees (I am maybe exagerating by about 5 degrees). But for the most part, heat has not been an issue. We are having a wonderful time and so excited to see what the Lord will have us do for tomorrow.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for praying for us. We really appreciate your thoughts and prayers. Lauren and Justin (and me too) are really looking forward to Friday when Michael arrives. It will be great for us to be a family again and serving the Lord down here. I am trying to get on to update the blog daily, but sometimes the internet just doesn't cooperate. I will blog as much as I can.
Talk to y'all again real soon!! Amy
Monday, August 2, 2010
And They're Off!
Well, I got a phone call from Amy this morning around 10:30AM and they were all on the plane for Puerto Rico and ready to take off . Please keep them in your prayers as they continue to travel and I am sure that Amy will give you an update later this evening.
Please pray for me as I head to Montana this morning for the leadership retreat with our volleyball players from Cornerstone. I will be there until Thursday, get back to GR at 10:00PM Thursday night and get on the plane at 6:15AM on Friday morning to join the fam.
Talk to y'all later.
Mike
Please pray for me as I head to Montana this morning for the leadership retreat with our volleyball players from Cornerstone. I will be there until Thursday, get back to GR at 10:00PM Thursday night and get on the plane at 6:15AM on Friday morning to join the fam.
Talk to y'all later.
Mike
Sunday, August 1, 2010
today is the day
Well, today has arrived and I was up to welcome it. I had planned on being in bed at 8:30 (ok, more realistic 10pm), but as I was putting the suitcases by the door, I noticed that one of the suitcases had its stitching coming apart. Not wanting to take the chance, I switched suitcases. It wouldn't have been all that bad, but I was moving the contents to a smaller suitcase. I then bowed my head and asked the Lord to guide me as I crammed the contents into the smaller one. The Lord answered my prayers and wa-lah we were packed and ready to go. Only one towel wouldn't fit. Guess that is going to be wrapped around my waist till we get down there. Well wouldn't you know....time didn't stand still, it kept ticking and here we are at 12:45am. I think I am off to get a couple winks before 3am arrives.
By the way , the kids are very excited!! They didn't want to go to sleep, but thank goodness they fell asleep by 10pm.
Thank you for reading our posts. We are so looking forward to the opportunities that await us down in Puerto Rico. Our flight leaves at 6:15am eastern time and arrives into Baltimore at 7:50am, then departs to SanJuan 10:45 and arrives at 3:00pm. FYI...Puerto Rico is on eastern timezone.
Enjoy your day and be a blessing to someone today. Will post more when we get there.
Love, Amy
By the way , the kids are very excited!! They didn't want to go to sleep, but thank goodness they fell asleep by 10pm.
Thank you for reading our posts. We are so looking forward to the opportunities that await us down in Puerto Rico. Our flight leaves at 6:15am eastern time and arrives into Baltimore at 7:50am, then departs to SanJuan 10:45 and arrives at 3:00pm. FYI...Puerto Rico is on eastern timezone.
Enjoy your day and be a blessing to someone today. Will post more when we get there.
Love, Amy
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Frontline Bible Church Puerto Rico Mission Trip 2010
Welcome to our blog! We will attempt to keep you informed on what is going on.We want to share with you a wonderful opportunity our family has to go on a two week mission trip to Puerto Rico with our members of our church August 2-14, 2010. As we learned about this opportunity to serve others in Puerto Rico, we really sensed God calling us to be a part of this ministry. It is our prayer that as you read this letter you will consider joining us as a partner in this ministry as our team serves at Campamento del Caribe, a Christian youth camp near Juana Diaz, and also in a local church. During our time in Puerto Rico, we will be involved in maintenance, painting, and landscaping at the youth camp and will also be partnering in ministry with a church in a nearby barrio (neighborhood) where we will work with children and adults from families who struggle with poverty, neglect, and addictions. In both the camp setting and the local church our team will have the privilege of sharing the Good News about Jesus with the people we meet.
We are excited to be part of this team because it is something that Amy and I have talked about for some time now. It is important to us to make sure Lauren and Justin know how blessed they truly are to live in the best country in the world. In my profession, I have the privilege to talk to athletes all the time that “it’s not about you” and that we need to live with a servant’s heart. Lauren has been able to put this into practice with her youth group mission trip to Kentucky last year and now we feel that the time is right for our family to reach out across our borders and serve in another country. We believe that our family will be able to be used of God in many ways and with the different opportunities, as I have previously mentioned, it will be something in which we all can take part. Pray that this experience will forever change all of our lives but particularly Lauren and Justin. We want them to learn that whatever age they are they can be used mightily by God and because he has blessed us so much it is not only an opportunity but an obligation.
As we prepare for this trip, please pray for us and our ministry team. Our team consists of a diverse group of people, from pre-teens to grandparents, with a variety of skills, life experiences, and personalities. Please pray for our trip preparation, fund raising, and safety as we travel to and serve in Puerto Rico. Most of all pray that this experience will have a lasting spiritual impact on those we meet in Puerto Rico and in the lives of our team members. And, if you are able, please consider partnering with us by making a financial contribution toward the cost of our trip. Our family needs to raise approximately $4,800 by June 1st to cover our trip expenses; including airfare, ground transportation, food and lodging.
In His Service,
The Riemersma Family
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