Passing the Torch

Saying goodbye to the ones you love is never easy, but the heart receives a calming peace when you know you are leaving them in good hands, with someone who will grow to love them just as much as you do.

I'm so thankful José and I had these last three months to work together and ease the transition. He's a quick learner. Amazingly he has soaked up all the routines, expectations, and procedures established to help the Center run smoothly. The learning process also allowed the kids to take more ownership over the Center as they were responsible for teaching José how the store works, the library system, and their unique set of rules for playing Scrabble.

Yes, there were tears as I hugged my kids goodbye at the cafecito, but at the same time, I'm excited to come back and visit and see how things have grown. It's incredible to see all that God has done through these past three years and I know he's going to do great things through José and Tara's time there.

Everyone hanging inside the Center at the End of the Year Cafecito


It was so encouraging having many of the moms come. They were all so grateful for role we've played in their kids lives.


Cata was a huge help setting up and monitoring the cookie supply



Estefani and Reyneir, a couple of our first students in the Center


It's a little hard to see in this picture, but José is teaching the kids a bunch of games with the sidewalk chalk. He's great about jumping right in playing with them! I know he's going to really share his heart with them.

Last Week.

Here are few of the highlights from this last week in the Tutoring Center. It was a great week to wrap up the year. We had cafecito on Saturday and invited all the parents and students. It was a big success, but I'll write more about that later. For now enjoy a view pictures from the special events of the week.

Las Viejitas with the aprons I had made for them by a couple of the ladies in our micro-financing site. They turned out super cute and the girls loved them! They were so funny; they didn't want to get them dirty despite me explaining a million times that was their purpose.


The girls decided they wanted to be in charge of making our last breakfast. Each of them brought something to contribute, and Tracey and I learned how to make some Costa Rican treats.


Our very healthy spread: muñuelos (think dense funnel cake) "sweet meatballs" (popcorn balls), chocolate cake, and fruit with yogurt


Later that same day we made the sugariest, sugar cookies I've ever had.




The kids loved them, of course!




We finished out the week making Christmas cards as gifts to give to our families.

From highlights

It was a super fun week full of lots of memory making events!!!

Beach Trip!!!

Last weekend was our final Girls’ Group trip. Per the girls' request, we went to the beach and experienced one of the most gorgeous days I’ve ever had at the beach! There weren’t too many people, the waves weren’t too strong, and it was sunny with a slight breeze all day. It was incredible! The girls spent the whole day taking in all the beach had to offer-- rolling in the waves as they crashed on the shore, floating on the boogie boards, sunbathing on the rocks, and even trying to make friends with the Jr. high boys surfing right by us. (Oh yes, we are teenagers now!) We rounded out the day with a stop off at McDonalds for Happy Meals and all the soda they could drink. The last 20 minutes of the ride home I was pretty sure my eardrums were going to explode due to all the giddy hyperness, but thankfully we all made it home safely.

Stopping at the crocodile bridge along the way.




This was one of the favorite activities of the day--sitting on the shore waiting for the waves to crash on them and send them tumbling in the whitewash.


Pamela after being tossed by a wave. (This is one of my favorite pictures from the day)


A brief moment of both Tracey and I sitting on the shore. Lynnea fit right in with the "big girls".


Alicia, Debby, and Shaudin


Sunbathers


Sunbathers after they rolled around in the sand. It took them FOREVER to rinse all that sand off, but they had fun!


Our gorgeous beach!


It was a great day with lots of fun memories made that we will continue to share, even from a distance.

Graduation!!!

On Tuesday we celebrated 9 of our students graduating from 6th grade with a special lunch in the SI office. We briefly contemplated making homemade pizzas, but quickly decided they would appreciate Pizza Hut just as much, if not more.

Graduating from 6th grade is quite an accomplishment. For some of these kids, they already have significantly more schooling than either of their parents. And everyone of them is already in rolled for high school starting in February. ( We don’t have jr. high here, just elementary school and then high school) I’m so proud of these kids and all of their hard work. Some of them I’ve been working with since they were in 4th grade and it is INCREDIBLE to see how far they’ve come!!!



(L to R) Carlos, Estefani, Cata, Genesis, Yurly, Debby, Shaudin. And yes, this is the best picture we got of the whole event.

Sharing Life

How do you tell the community you’ve worked with for almost 3 years, that it’s come time for you to leave? Even the word “leave” sounds so harsh. Last Friday I sat in circle with my girls needing to do just that.

They were being rambunctious young teenagers as usual, but my heart was heavy with what I knew I had to share with them. Once they all calmed down a bit, we went around the circle sharing our favorite part of Girls Group. I was completely caught of guard by their responses. It wasn’t the trips to the beach or waterfalls. It wasn’t all the crafts and fun projects we done. It wasn’t even the baking (though many did mention the importance of chocolate in all our gatherings). For every single one of them, their favorite aspect of Girls’ Group was having a place to come and hangout, make new friends, talk about what’s going on in their lives, and really be listened too. One of the biggest complaints I hear from my girls, is that no one really listens to them, except for at Girls’ Group. They understand their moms are really busy working hard to take care of their families, but they just want to be heard, to know that their feelings matter, and to have the support of an adult they trust.

As I reflected on the girls’ responses, I was reminded that the most valuable resource we have is time. And taking the time to sit with someone and really listen to them, is often much more “effective” than just coming in with a well designed program or a slew of expertise. Yes, the girls have learned a lot through the programing we’ve done in Girls’ Group and they LOVE all of the outings. But at the end of our season together, I know the piece that has made the most impact and encouraged the most growth in these girls, is taking the time to sit, hear their stories, laugh and cry with them, sing Alicia Keys and Avril Lavigne at the top of our lungs, and occasionally use direct conversations to give them the guidance they need. In short, taking the time to really invest in their lives and be a steady presence they know they can count on. To me, this what I think of when the Bible talks about sharing our lives and discipling others.

Even though I feel heart-broken over leaving my girls, I know that they will be okay. God knew about this transition long before I did and had the next team warming up. The girls already love Tracey and they had a great time with Rose at the Waterfall gardens. I know once Tara is here, they’ll be excited to hangout with her too.

On Friday, we cried together a lot. But we also laughed too, and spent a long time recalling all the great memories we’ve shared. At the end of the day we agreed to make the most of these last few weeks we have together and make as many great memories as we can! (And eat as much chocolate as possible)

In these last few weeks, I don't want to be rushed or selfish with my time. I want to be conscious of those around me and really appreciate what we have to share. I know I won't be ready to leave in a month and don't want to miss a moment between now and then.


Sharing Chocolate Gravy for breakfast with my mom and Tracey

Helpers

In the Tutoring Center we are always looking for quality helpers. We know all students benefit from one-on-one attentions, and we have several students who really need it. These last two months we were blessed to have two students from Nyack University join us daily in the Center as part of their study abroad internship. It was so great to have two more patient and creative helpers with us!!! Plus, it was a great chance for them to practice their Spanish.

Lani and Daniela


Jenny and Allison


During their last week here, we even had the opportunity to go to the International Latin American Film Festival in the oldest movie theater in Costa Rica. A special treat for all of us!



Thanks Lani and Jenny for being a part of the Tutoring Center. We miss you!

Brothers!!!

Last week was a great time getting to hosting some awesome people from my home church as well as two individuals from the other side of the country. I was very thankful for the opportunity to share with my church family all that they have been a part of over these last three years. Though the highlight was definitely just getting to spend time with my brothers. Since both of them joined our family long after I had moved out, I haven't had the opportunity to just hangout with them and build our relationships as much as I'd like to. (Living in a foreign country and them being teenage boys makes this exceptionally difficult.) We had a great time experiencing Costa Rica together and growing our relationships, even though the time was short. I mean, what teenage boy wouldn't think I was the greatest sister when he gets to come over to my house and eat a whole batch of cookies and brownies!

Elijah and Gerry enjoying brownies at my house!


The boys had great attitudes and open minds for taking in all the new experiences of Costa Rica. Gerry wasn't deterred from making the most of the experience even when he broke his ankle on the second to last day :( He still somehow managed to accompany me, on his crutches, for a long walk at the beach the next day! This week was a special time that will continue to grow our relationship even though they're back in the States.

Fall Newsletter

If you haven't had the opportunity to read it via email, check out my last newsletter that will be written from Costa Rica. Hear about the end of the year events and meet our two new teachers!!!

Newsletter!!

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Last week we finally made it to our original destination of the La Paz Waterfall Gardens with ALL of the girls, plus our friend Rose who was visiting from Fresno as she considers coming on staff here. We all had an amazing time! The girls used their love of photography to document every step, down to the bathrooms. The beauty of the park is truly breathtaking. If you ever get the chance to visit Costa Rica, you really should check it out.




Rebeca and Yurly


Maria and Rose on the trail


Alicia holding the national butterfly



From the top...


...From below a 120 ft. Waterfall


Bathroom picture! Alicia, Shaudin, and Estefani



This is our Jr. High attitude picture

From La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Besides the incredible beauty of God's creation and all the laughter shared with the girls, the part of the day that struck me most was how thankful the girls were for the opportunity to be there. I lost track of how many times one of them would come alongside me on the trail or stop next to the butterflies and say, "Thank you so much for bring us here. This is such a special day."

I think my girls are great, but remembering to say thank you, is not one of their strong points. It really touched me how grateful they were and how they took in every bit, realizing how beautiful their country really is. I want to pass on their thanks and thank you for your part in making this day possible-- for supporting me, praying for us, and encouraging me especially when things haven't been all smiles and butterflies.


p.s. If you want to see more pictures, just click on the album link.

A Change of Plans

A few weeks ago we were planning a special trip for Girls' Group to a gorgeous nature reserve, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, just a little outside of San Jose. Everyone was SUPER excited!!!! But as the day approached, several of the girls were no longer able to go, due to school and family obligations. I sat down with the remaining girls during one of our Viejitas breakfasts to discuss the dilemma. Even though I knew they wouldn't be keen on the idea, I proposed postponing the trip so everyone could participate. In the meantime, we could do something special on the original day here in San Jose. As I expected, the initial response was, "NO!!! We can't wait to go!!!!"
But then after a short pause, Rebeca spoke up, "Can we have a minute to talk about this with just us girls?"

"Of course," I replied and went to straighten the books in the library.

About 5 minutes later, Rebeca snuck in and said slowly, "We decided we want to postpone the trip so everyone can go. And we would like to go to the park and have a picnic that day instead. Can we do that?"

"That's a great idea!" I replied. "A picnic would be tons of fun!"

As Rebeca and I walked back into the kitchen, she turned to me and said with a big smile on her face, "We are good friends to the other girls, aren't we ?" I was so proud of her. We've spent the last month talking about being a good friend. Of all the girls, Rebeca has the hardest time consistently being one. In that moment, I could see the change taking place in her.

We had a great time hanging out in a big park in Desamparados, and everyone is excited to go together to the Waterfall Gardens next month!

Alicia, Me, Catalina, Maria (my friend and co-worker), and Rebeca

The girls flew kites for the first time ever.

Of their own accord, the girls organized it so everyone would bring something to share for our picnic. I was in charge of bringing peanut butter, for the girls favorite snack- PB&J's

Just after this picture was taken, Catalina took out a small child who wouldn't move out of the path. Her defense, "I yelled at him and told him I was coming down." Fair enough, right?

From Parque de La Paz

"Busy but Good"

So it’s been awhile since I’ve written in this space. Rather than trying to update you on every detail of the last couples months, I’m going to employ the phrases I’ve often used of late when answering how I’m doing, “Busy but good.” We had a busy but good 3 months of teams working alongside of us. It was great to see the exchange between our Costa Rican Students and the American/Canadian students. It was a privilege to be able to help facilitate the sharing of God given talents and insights. I know that many lives were touch through the time together. Thank you so much to each of you who shared part of your summer with us and to those who helped support them to be here. We are all in this together.

Since the teams ended, we’ve had a shift of focus that has also kept me busy but good, Transition. While I still have several months left here in Costa Rica, there is lots to do to prepare for transition that will be taking place both in the Center and for me personally. I’d greatly appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this important time. One huge praise, is we’ve hired one new teacher for the Center and are in the process of interviewing another.

These next couple months in the Center will be full. I'm busy trying to put in writing everything I’ve learned and set into place over the last 3 years, spending extra quality time with my girls, training a new teacher, and all the regular day-to-day responsibilities of running the Center. When I get home from work, most of my time is spent studying for the GRE (if anyone has any pointers, I’d greatly appreciate them) and researching grad schools and scholarships for a Masters in Education. All exciting things, but it easy to get tired and stressed out looking at all that needs to be done. My desire for these next few months it that I can be diligent in completing the tasks and preparations I need to, but still be fully engaged in my kids and the community here. There is so much that I love about life here in Costa Rica, I don’t want to miss out on any of it in these last few months.

A few of my highlights from the Summer

Taking the girls to on a scavenger hunt in downtown San Jose

Having an AMAZING intern, Amy. She was a huge help and a great addition to the Center! Thank you so much, Amy!!!

Celebrating the summer and Dustin's birthday at one of our favorite restaurants. They have the best secret sauce!

Hiking through the incredible countryside of Costa Rica.

From Summer 2011

Sitting on my roof to enjoy breath-taking sunsets.

INA

A few weeks ago we had the opportunity to join all the SI Costa Rica sites and take our older kids to the Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA). INA is a government run trade school, particularly geared to providing quality job training to youth and adults from economically challenged communities. All of their services and trainings are completely free, but the students have to show that they are motivated and committed. Many of our students had heard of INA, but had no idea what they really offered or how to get connected. This trip was a great opportunity to show our kids what is available to them, if they are willing to work hard. Many of my girls couldn't stop talking about all of the exciting possibilities and areas of study: textile design, tourism, food preparation , hair stylist, etc. Many of our kids have the motivation and commitment essential to succeed, they just need help getting connected to the resources that are available to them. It's exciting when we get to help build that bridge.

My Girls

Our whole group

From Summer 2011

It's the simple things

A refreshing Saturday morning.

Sunshine.
A cup of coffee.
A book of poetry.
Laundry on the line.

"Prayer is waking up to the presence of God no matter where I am or what I am doing.

When I am fully alert to whatever or whoever is right in front of me; when I am electrically aware of the tremendous gift of being alive; when I am able to give myself whooly to the moment I am in, then I am in prayer."

~ Barbara Brown, An Altar in the World

Chapati and Hip-Hop

With the start of summer teams, we've had a great influx of wonderful people willing to share their gifts and talents with us at the Tutoring Center. Both groups, so far, have been a great help in the day-to-day activities of the Center-- tutoring kids, directing craft time, and playing incessant games of tag during "recess".

They have also been extremely generous in sharing their special talents with us during Girls' Group. Last week, Praise, who's family is originally from the southern part of India, taught us to make chapati while sharing about the culture and custom of her home country. The girls had lots of great questions about the country they initially had difficulty locating on a map. Through listening to Praise share, the girls learned that something are the same no matter where in the world you live. And they loved making and eating the chapati. It was a great learning and growing experience for all of us.

This week we in Girls' Group we're having a hip-hop class lead by Amy, our great intern. I can't wait!!!



Naomi, Atalia, Amy, and Praise cooking up the chapati.



Deborah, carefully rolling out her bread. I think she spent 15 minutes just trying to get the perfect shape.


Ready to enjoy the finished product!