Joyce Update April 13, 2009

To all my friends, I know it has been a while since I last wrote.  I feel that there is nothing new to write, every day is the same and nothing new has happened lately.  I am enjoying my life here.  I am even getting better in Spanish.  That is how I spend most of my time-studying.  I realized the other day that I can understand and speak more now-Praise the Lord. It has been quite a struggle for me, and yet I know that to tell people about the Lord I need to know the language better. I really got a burden for the village where the farm is that I went to last month. I have not been back there, but I plan to go soon. I also met my first Quechuan friend.  She sells produce in my town on Saturdays.  She is very friendly to me, and I really enjoy what little we speak to each other. We mostly just hold hands and smile at each other, but  I feel a real bond there.  She does know a lot of Spanish, but doesn't really understand mine like a native Spanish speaker does. (Well, they sort of understand me)
I am teaching another boy English now, in addition to Deborah and Rachel.  He learns in school, but is behind, and failing.  He did not like to learn and it is hard for him.   I spent most of the first lesson explaining that I feel the same way about Spanish if I try to learn too much.  When I try to learn a little I understand it and can learn better. So I gave him a little to learn and he felt much better about it.  He will be coming to my house once a week. A little sympathy goes a long way to encourage someone.  I need to remember that when I talk to others and try to help them.  Especially when I deal with my sons.
As I write this I am looking forward to Mark and Mark Alan being here in a couple of days. I am so thankful.  God has given me above all that I ask or think.  I am so thankful that my whole family will be together here. 
There was a scorpion in my house the other day.  I didn't realize there were scorpions here. It was interesting to see, but I would rather they not be in my house.  Ironically, that was the same night I slept all night with a lizard in my room.  Paul killed the scorpion, and the next morning John and Paul caught the lizard and put him back outside.  You should have seen them chase it around the house.  The lizards move quick. If I ever wished I had a video camera, it was then.
I have not been to the orphanage lately.  I am planning to go with Mark Alan a day soon after he comes. I am looking forward to it. 
God has been teaching me much lately.  First is the fact that I need to be filled with the Spirit to work for Him.  He gives the strength and courage.  I am realizing more
how much God loves me and how much He has done for me.  I spent years being selfish with my life, and would like to give back to Him by telling others the Gospel, and helping others.   I am so thankful for God's mercy to me.  I miss you all, and have fond memories of the time we got to spend together.  May we go in His strength to work for Him wherever we are.
Brother Elvis and his family are doing well.  He is enthusiastic about serving God, and is encouraging to be around. 
It would be a blessing to hear from you soon, with news about your life there..  Love, Joyce