DR VandeLinde News

Celebrate Jesus- Merry Christmas

2011-12-09T14:41:00.002-06:00

     A couple weeks ago our family decorated the Christmas tree together. Well, actually, Ryan, Micah and I decorated the tree while Josiah took everything off. After the tree was up, I spent the first few days trying to teach Josiah not to touch the tree. But after I realized I was fighting a losing battle, I put all the fragile ornaments up high. Now the bottom of the tree is bare and there are always a few ornaments lying around the house. I decided that "Peace on Earth" (and in our home) was more important than a nicely decorated tree.   Josiah also has enjoyed stealing the pieces from the children's toy nativity just after Micah has it set up just right.
     But despite all of this, Micah is really excited about Christmas this year. He has enjoyed making cookies and gingerbread houses, Christmas ornaments and even a nativity out of toilet paper rolls. (I know you want a toilet paper roll nativity too. But this is one of a kind. You can't have it. Don't be jealous.) Micah looks forward to visiting family in the US, having a little break from school and going to Disney World for the first time.
   With all this busy-ness it is easy to forget about Christmas. How complicated can we possibly make Christmas? How simple was that first Christmas? Jesus, God in flesh came to this earth as a baby, a naked little baby. He lay in a manger, a animal's feeding trough, and was wrapped in clothes. And though angels filled the night sky with song, it was the simple shepherds that took note of them and came to see the baby. Why didn't anyone else come? Maybe they were too busy to notice the angels or just too busy for their message.
   I love celebrating the ways I did when I was young and I love making new traditions with my children and husband. I just think that we need to be aware that sometimes we are celebrating our family, our childhood, and our friendships when we say we are celebrating our Lord. I pray that our family despite our busy-ness will be able to celebrate Jesus this Christmas. I pray we will not be too busy to join the angels in sharing the Good News. I am not exactly sure what that looks likes to celebrate Jesus at Christmas without busying myself with another activity. But I pray that I will be able to figure out what it means and be able to teach it to my children. I pray while we host teams, hop planes, visit family, go to amusement parks, build gingerbread houses, decorate cookies and open gifts, we think of a simple Christmas and we learn how to celebrate Jesus. I hope the same for you and your family too.
Merry Christmas!

Busy

2011-08-19T17:00:00.000-06:00

We have been busy hosting teams, squeezed in a little vacation and even managed to move since I last blogged. This evening we will welcome Andrew Butz to the EDCM team as he will be heading up the new camp project. Sometimes we are too busy living life to blog about it! But I will be blogging really soon. Well . . .maybe not THAT soon since we still don't have internet at the new house. But the next few weeks look a little less hectic and I will try to share with you all a bit more about what God is doing in our lives here in the DR.

Ryan Hospitalized

2011-07-09T15:47:00.000-06:00

I can start out by saying that we can praise God that Ryan is back at home and taking it easy. But the poor guy has had a rough few weeks. It all started three weeks ago when after returning from Punta Cana he spiked a fever. Through the next few days his fever came and went and he developed a hacking cough. After weeks of misery, he finally gave in and went to the doctor. The doctor ran a few tests and determined that he had bronchitis, a urinary tract and kidney infection. Further tests ruled out malaria. (Praise God!) He was admitted to the hospital on Thursday morning and was released this afternoon. We praise God for a good doctor, Dr. Chalas and the staff at The Good Samaritan Hospital for caring for Ryan. But we also are thankful that he is well enough to be back home. Please pray for Ryan's continued improvement as he still is recovering.

Thank You Suncrest!

2011-06-30T12:16:00.000-06:00


Children's Activity in Higuey


Breanna sharing the story of Joseph

Dominican and Suncrest youth with a group of children in Punta Cana


New friends working together in Punta Cana

Thank you Suncrest for your time of service here in the Dominican Republic. You all are a great group. You guys stepped out of your comfort zones to serve the Dominicans. First at a VBS with over 100 kids in Higuey and then at camp with the La Romana youth. You fought through language and cultural barriers and made new friends. Suncrest youth and La Romana worked together beautifully to offer an activity to large group of children in Punta Cana. I hope that you will continue your attitude of service now you are back in the USA. I pray that you will each be bold in your faith as you face your own challenges at home. I am proud of what you accomplished here and I know that God will continue to work in you as you become the men and women God created you to be.

Thank You Central Church of Christ!

2011-06-17T07:29:00.000-06:00


Painting in Villa Hermosa

We kicked off our summer of work teams with a team from Central Church of Christ in Streator, IL. They arrived the week we acquired a new site for the church in Villa Hermosa. God's timing was perfect. The team spent their first two days painting and hosted a children's activity the second afternoon. It was a packed house and a great way to introduce the church to the community.

Full house in the new building in Villa Hermosa

The team also carried out children's activities at the churches in La Romana and Punta Cana. Their time flew by and we are thankful for their time here. We look forward for a continued partnership in the future.

Showing off their craft in La Romana

Coloring pages in La Romana

For more pictures go to Eastern Dominican Christian Mission on facebook or follow this link Central Church of Christ, Streator, IL

Cristo Urbano in the east

2011-06-08T08:56:00.000-06:00

Cristo Urbano is a collaboration of Christian rap and hip hop artists that desire to bring glory to God by sharing their talents. The group traveled from their home base in Santiago to share with us in the east. Friday night they arrived in Higuey to offer a free concert at the new church plant there. Unfortunately after a few hours of waiting at the new church site in the rain, they had to cancel due to not having power. It was a disappointment for the few that had braved the storm. However, the following night Cristo Urbano was able to perform at the church in La Romana. It was an event that helped bring together young Christians from various denominations in La Romana to worship God while having fun. We look forward to uniting together more with our brothers and sisters from the western part of the country to work together in spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ and encouraging those that already know Jesus.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-06-03T15:56:00.001-06:00

I know what you are thinking! Behind again! Mother's Day was a month ago. But here in the Dominican Republic we celebrate Mother's Day on the last Sunday in May, so it was just last week. And here it is a BIG deal! For some mothers, Mother's Day is a bigger deal than Christmas. The stores are filled with special offers on everything from ovens to jewelery. And the gift is a big part of how Dominicans celebrate Mother's Day. A friend of mine received a new flatscreen television and numerous new cooking crocs for the kitchen. I was given three beautiful house plants.

Micah's class presenting the solar system

Micah's school has a special Mother's Day program on the Friday before the holiday. Songs about how mothers are pretty and loved made each mother beam. Cake and snacks of empanadas, pimento cheese sandwiches and fried yucca were service after the show and each mother received a card made by their child.

Me and Micah with my Mother's Day Card

Each of the churches that are a part of Eastern Dominican Christian Mission celebrated with the women of the churches as well. In La Romana invited the church of Pica Piedras/Villa Hermosa to join together for the morning service. Gifts were made by the children during Sunday school and additional gifts of baskets of sweets were given out to all mothers during the church service. In Punta Cana, they celebrated the Saturday before with a special program. In addition all mothers were photographed with their children and they will receive the pictures this Sunday at the church service. In Higuey the children made a gift for their mothers and they has a special lunch for the mothers after the morning service.

Special poem for mothers

Feliz dia de la madre!

Special music by RL and Marlene (see the gifts)

(And just so you know, we celebrate Father's Day the last Sunday in July. So you won't be reading about Father's Day for a little while. And sorry dads, it just isn't a very big deal here. ;) )

New Ministry Launched in Higuey

2011-05-29T15:42:00.001-06:00

Last Sunday, May 22 the new church in Higuey met for the first time for Sunday morning services. The city of Higuey is located in the middle of La Romana and Punta Cana. It is a city that is full of religious tradition much surrounding the catholic church. but very few know Jesus as their personal savior. The new church plant is located on the edge of town where a more rural area meets the motorcycle filled streets. On Sunday 230 were counted present during the service. We celebrated the first service with brothers and sisters from the congregations in Punta Cana, La Romana and even a three brothers from the United States. It was a wonderful experience to worship together through singing, dancing and even mime! The minister Victor Hernandez shared a message about his dream for God to transform the community of Villa Cero in Higuey. I pray that is your dream too.

Pray for the people in Villa Cero, Higuey. Pray that God prepares their hearts to accept the word of God. Pray that God will touch the community and transform lives. Pray that Satan will be powerless against those spreading the truth.

Please pray for Victor Hernandez and his family, wife Heidy, daughter Abigail and son Cristian as they are just beginning a new ministry. Pray for the oldest son and his family still living in Costa Rica as they anticipate the arrival of a second child in January. Pray that God will bless the entire family with friends. Pray they will continue to burn with a passion to reach the people in Higuey. Pray they will have the discernment to know when to rest and when to press on. Pray for perseverance to endure difficult times that are ahead.
Pray when ever you think of it and about whatever God lays on your heart.
Pray. . .pray. . .pray!
We rejoice in the beginning of a new church plant and can't wait to see how God will amaze us!

(Thanks to Greg Sexton for the photos. My camera died right before the service began!)

A new start. . . kinda

2011-05-29T14:38:00.000-06:00

I have been such a bad blogger! I have intended to back track and to share what has been going on (see last blog in Feb). But I have been a bit overwhelmed so I am just going to start anew. Sorry for what I failed to share in the past few months. I PROMISE I will be better in the future! Starting today!

Back tracking a bit

2011-02-08T07:28:00.000-06:00

When I first began blogging, I was much more faithful in sharing with you all our experiences as new missionaries. Since I began blogging, we have left to the US to attend language school, completed language school, returned to the US before heading off to the Dominican Republic, headed off to the Dominican Republic, settled into our new home, hosted many teams, had a baby, celebrated Christmas in the DR for the first time and we are only into our third year as missionaries. (Just to mention a few of the highlights.) I have tried to blog along the way but have gotten terrible about doing it more regularly. So I am going to do a little back tracking. There are a few things we have experienced in the past months that I would like to share. So please don't be confused as my posts will be about happening in December and January. You're not behind, I am.

Family pic (with Josiah)

2011-02-04T22:10:00.005-06:00

Josiah's arrival

2010-12-09T12:22:00.000-06:00

On September 23, we welcomed Josiah into this world. His arrival started in normal way. Around lunch time I went into labor, things progressed normally through the afternoon and evening and around 9:30pm we headed to the hospital. While I was pushing, I was experiencing a lot of pain even though I had an epidural. (Yes, we have epidurals here.) And then Josiah's heart rate dropped. I was rushed into surgery for an emergency c-section. Once in surgery the doctor discovered a tear in my uterus originating from my previous c-section scar. Then when removing the baby my uterus ruptured, a rare but potential life threatening complication when attempting a vaginal birth after a cesarean delivery. Josiah emerged a bit sluggish but after 30 minutes or so of oxygen, he was fine. My doctor, and also great surgeon, was able to repair the ruptured uterus after a couple hours of surgery. I lost a lot of blood during the surgery and so the following morning I received two pints of blood (one pint from my loving husband). After four days in the hospital, I returned home with my new baby boy. A couple days after that I returned to the hospital for a outpatient procedure to treat the spinal headache I had been having. In the following days, I began to feel sick and called my doctor and let her know I thought I had a bladder infection. After a few days of antibiotics, I felt worse and returned to the hospital. I was diagnosed with a bladder infection, as well as an infection of the endometrium and anemia. I was admitted to the hospital for a few days during which time my mother-in-law returned to the US leaving Ryan alone with the two boys. I was anxious to get better to return home to my family but once I was home, I still was not well. At the time I did not know that I had an abscess growing inside of me. After about a week more, the abscess ruptured causing my c-section scar to open. So once again I returned to the hospital. Upon admission, I was diagnosed with severe anemia as well as the ruptured abscess. Due to the anemia I received two more pints of blood (one pint from Victor Jimenez, the pastor at La Romana). During my hospital stay my mother arrived from the US. After a few days, I returned home again. After all the complications, I am enjoying being at home enjoying my family. Josiah is a precious baby and I am thankful for his health and good temperment. In general, Micah has done very well adjusting to a new brother during all this other craziness. And Ryan and I have been blessed by seeing God's love for us through the body of Christ here in the DR and those in the US that have lifted us up in prayer. It has been a long, difficult couple months. But I have been encouraged to see God's faithfulness in action and in a personal way.

Great Summer of Teams

2010-10-28T10:45:00.002-06:00

We have had a great time hosting work teams over the summer. Here are just a few pictures from Colonial Heights, Plum Creek, River Valley, Central Christian and New Hope. To see more pictures, check out Eastern Dominican Christian Mission on facebook.

Alisa from Central Christian Church with some children from Punta Cana

Colonial Heights work team in front of the clinic in La Romana

Youth from La Romana and Plum Creek leading games at Punta Cana

Jessica from River Valley providing dental care in La Romana

We've had a crazy end of summer. Keep posted for updated blog soon!

2010-10-25T20:19:00.002-06:00

Father's Day

2010-08-09T13:56:00.000-06:00

Father's Day is celebrated the last Sunday in July here in the Dominican Republic. The Saturday evening before Father's Day, the ladies group of the La Romana church had a special dinner for fathers at the York's home. Then the youth of the La Romana church planned and carried out the Sunday morning service. Here are a few pictures from the morning service.

Ricardo Luis shared a touching message about God's greatness as our heavenly father as well as a few musical specials.

Many dance and musical specials were shared in honor of our earthly fathers, glorifying our heavenly father.

Link to Father's Day photos on Eastern Dominican Christian Mission on Facebook

Mother's Day

2010-07-29T13:54:00.000-06:00

RL and Sharina singing a special about mothers


Some of the girls recited a poem

Mother's Day is celebrated in the Dominican Republic the last Sunday in May. The church in La Romana had quite a few special activities during the service to celebrate Mother's Day. I hope you enjoy the pictures.

A panel of mothers entertained questions from Victor and Ric as well as the church members

Mother's Day Beauty Salon

2010-07-08T11:17:00.002-06:00

To celebrate Mother's Day, the Ladies' Group at the La Romana Church offered a free beauty salon to the women of the church and nearby community. The ladies offered pedicures, hair color and cuts and of course new styles. A few professionals helped but most services were offered by the women of the church. It was a great way to make moms feel special for their special day and reach out to the community.

Mangoes!

2010-05-26T16:42:00.000-06:00

Before we left the US I probably could have counted on one hand the number of times I had eaten a mango. While in language school in Costa Rica, we bought mangoes at the local market. I would make a mango salsa that was a variation of a recipe from my dad. When we moved to the Dominican Republic in January, someone pointed out to us the mango trees in our yard. Since we share a yard with two other families, I had hoped that there would be enough mangoes for us to have a few when the season came. Well, the season is here and we are up to our eyeballs in mangoes! I had no clue how many mangoes a tree could produce! So we have enjoyed mangoes in many shapes and sorts over the past week. Our 3 year old son enjoys eating them chilled and then peeled. He usually takes his shirt off first as the juice runs all over his hands and down his face and neck. I have made mango juice, mango salsa, mango cobbler and a mango oatmeal breakfast drink (my least favorite recipe). I suppose I'll keep trying new recipes as the mangoes keep coming. The tree is still full of mangoes that aren't ripe yet, so I think we might have a few more weeks of mango madness.

This is progress

2010-05-26T16:12:00.001-06:00

This large dirty, rocky area once was a pool. If you have even been to the community center where the church in La Romana meets, you've seen this HUGE pool. The shallow end was over six feet deep and I have no clue how deep the deepest end was. It was deep enough that a tree had gown in it. The pool was closed after the first season in use due to numerous deaths. So the empty pool has sat behind the center for decades now, still a major hazard. A few previous attempts have been made to fill the pool but because it was SO deep a concerted effort was needed to get the job done. After 25 truck loads of dirt, the pool was finally filled! We now can make plans to use the area behind the center to serve those using the clinic and the community around it.

We celebrate new believers! May 2, 2010

2010-05-26T15:47:00.002-06:00

On May second following the morning worship service at the Christian church in La Romana, six people dedicated their lives to Christ and were baptized. Due to the logistics of it all, we are unable to keep a baptistry filled with water at the church. So a large kiddie pool was brought in for the special occasion. Before the service, the pool was inflated and set up outside on the front lawn of the church building. During the service a large water truck arrived and filled it. After the service the congregation moved outside for a time of devotion and prayer before the baptisms. Then together, the pastor and two elders of the church baptized our new brothers and sisters. Following the baptisms we sang songs of praise as we welcomed our new believers into the body of Christ. My heart always rejoices when people come into the saving grace of Jesus.

Want to see more pictures from the baptisms? Check out our album on facebook by clicking this link.

Camp

2010-05-02T15:19:00.006-06:00

April 1-4, 33 youth and young adults from the Christian Church in La Romana met up with hundreds of other Christian brothers and sisters at a camp in western part of the country. Together we worshiped, studied and just had a good time. Ryan had the opportunity to teach a class to the youth on worship. And to fill a unexpected need, I translated a class for married women. Minta, a sister in Christ from Virginia, taught about marriage one day and prayer the next. We were blessed by the work team from Winchester, VA that offered activities for the children while the adults and youth had our morning classes. Our son loved the attention and enjoyed making new friends that speak English. Throughout the weekend, we enjoyed meeting new people that are from our home state as well as people from all over the country of the Dominican Republic. The final night, some of the youth from La Romana cooked up a traditional Eastern Dominican Easter dish of dumplings. However, these dumplings were NOT like any I had eaten before. These were served up with sardines and tomato sauce. It was a "cultural experience" for sure. Overall, the extended weekend was a great opportunity for all present. Ryan and I got to know the youth better and see many of them demonstrate their great strength as leaders. It was exciting to see the youth in action as many of the youth at camp are those we hope to become leaders in the churches as the Word is spread throughout the country. Easter morning worship at camp.

For more camp pictures, check out our album on facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=12937&id=123951010973093&l=191da2f9f4

Leadership Graduation

2010-05-02T14:57:00.007-06:00

To wrap up a busy weekend, on March 21 a group at the La Romana church celebrated their completion of a 12 week leadership course. The minister, Victor Jimenez taught the class "Purpose Driven Leadership". The celebration took place during both the Sunday school and church hours. It was a VERY big deal. All participants dressed in official graduate cap and gown and were issued a certificate for their completion of the course. Their first responsibility as new leaders was planning and carry out the Easter weekend services. I am sure that God has plenty more in store for these leaders. Congratulations Leaders! The class of graduates with their teacher, Victor Jimenez (pictured to the right in a suit), and minister of the church in Punta Cana and event MC, Franklin Francisco (pictured to the right in a white shirt)

Check out more pictures from graduation on facebook by clicking on this link

Vision Clinic

2010-04-29T10:25:00.006-06:00

On March 20, a vision clinic was held at the Centro Mutualista where the La Romana church meets. In previous days, tickets were passed out to church members and member of the community that were interested in having their vision checked and/or in need of eye glasses. Minister's wife, Yudermy (pictured above in brown shirt)played a large role in organizing the event. A local eye doctor volunteered her services for eye exams while numerous church members helped organize and distribute the eye glasses that had been donated from the US. People got to try out their new glasses by reading scripture and information about church ministries was also passed out. Almost 100 people were seen just that morning!It was a great opportunity for the local church in La Romana to cooperate with community center in which they meet. It was also a wonderful way for the community to be blessed by those in the church willing to volunteer their time and help others.

Youth Fundraiser for Camp- A Concert

2010-04-29T09:43:00.009-06:00

The youth at the church in La Romana attend camp each year during there Easter Break. This year the cost per person was about $55 and each person is responsible for paying his own part. For many of the youth that is an expense they cannot afford. So the youth came up with a number of ideas help defer the cost of camp. Two sisters baked cookies and sold them to the students at their school. A couple young men worked with an American work team that helped finance their trip. Others worked in peoples homes, cooking, cleaning and babysitting. The youth had a night at church when you could pay to make someone preform or you could pay to keep yourself from having to. (Ryan and Micah were paid to sing and sang "Take Me Out to the Ballgame") Over the months, the youth chipped away at the cost for camp. Then on March 19 they had "La Reunion", a concert. The youth themselves organized, planned and sold tickets for the concert. Ryan and I were concerned when we arrived at the church at 7:00, the time scheduled for the concert to begin, and no one was there. But an hour later the musicians began to arrive and by 8:30 or 9:00 there was music. Two youth were part of the talent line-up that included other Christian artists from the eastern part of the country. The style of music was rap and hip-hop. The church was packed with young people from all over. During the concert there was a snack stand that sold food and drinks also to raise money. It was a great success and the youth also had a great time. First picture is of youth sponsor and elder Wandy with youth performer, Marlen before the concert. The second picture is of youth,Ricardo Luis, performing at the concert.

Bad Blogger!

2010-04-19T09:03:00.001-06:00

I apologize that I have been a bad blogger. I guess it is a good sign that we have been busy. Keep posted, I will try to update you all this week and next.

Thank you, teams!

2010-03-11T15:10:00.005-06:00

This morning we said good bye to another work team from the United States. Though they probably have made it to Punta Cana by now, they will work there until Saturday before they head back to Erie,IL. They were a small team of just 6, but with a lot of great skills that were put to use in the medical clinic at the center where the La Romana church meets. In previous months since we arrived, other work teams have also volunteered their time and skills to serve the people of the Dominican Republic through Eastern Dominican Christian Mission. The mission has hosted, farmers, a doctor, nurses, salesmen, ministers, concrete layers, a horse trainer and students, to name just a few. And each person has offered something special that has touched the ministry here in a unique way. So thank you CCU, Cogan Station, Pomona and Erie. We thank you for your work here. We pray that you will continue to share in our ministry here in the Dominican Republic and that your lives have been touched as you have touched ours. If you have plans to be a part of the one of the work teams coming this year, we look forward to seeing how God will use your own talents and gifts to serve God here in the Dominican Republic. If you are interested in being a part of a team, contact Ryan at ryanvandelinde@hotmail.com to discuss how your small group can serve.

We are connected!

2010-02-21T15:28:00.000-06:00

Finally after much ado. . . we have internet in our new home in La Romana, Dominican Republic. We hope to keep you better updated as we begin our new ministry with Eastern Dominican Christian Mission.

Please pray!

2010-01-17T13:07:00.003-06:00

Haiti: Please pray for the people of Haiti. My heart goes out to the people. However compassion does not help, only action. Please ask God to help us know what we can do to serve the people of Haiti, our new neighbors on the island of Hispanola. Also pray that God will lead you in helping you know what you can do to help. Our home: Please pray that God will bless our new home here in the DR. Pray that we are able to make an impact for Him in our new neighborhood, Buena Vista, our new city, La Romana, and our new country, the Dominican Republic. Our physical needs: Please pray that God will continue to bless us financially. We received a lot of financial support while we were in the United States from friends, family and churches. However, we still need to raise more support so that we will be able to buy a car and furnish our home.

What a week!

2010-01-17T12:43:00.004-06:00

This past week began in the United States. Looking back, it is crazy that so much happened in one week! Sunday morning we were blessed to be in McCoy, Virginia where we had the opportunity to share with Community Christian Church what God is doin in the DR. By that afternoon we were back in Roanoke packing up to get ready to leave for the DR. Monday afternoon, my mom and stepdad arrived in Roanoke, not just to visit, but because they are actually moving to Roanoke! After pedicures with my mom, we met up for dinner with my brother and sister and her family. Then back to the house for last minute packing. Tuesday we packed up and just before we headed out to the airport in Greensborough, we heard the awful news of the earthquake in Haiti. For those that may not know, my family established an orphanage in Haiti. Unable to contact anyone we knew in Haiti, we prayed that the children and staff were safe. (We later heard that they were all okay. Wednesday morning we got up before the sun and ushered our 9 suitcases to the airport. We were blessed by the woman at the counter who did not charge us for overweight bags or our three extra bags. A savings of $400! She asked us to help someone in need in return. By that afternoon, we arrived in the DR. With all our luggage and without any problems. Wednesday night Ryan headed over to the church where they had a prayer meeting for the people of Haiti and Micah and I crashed at Rick and Suzanne's (our mssionary teammates)too tired to go out again. Thursday, we found an apartment, got health insurance and started to price our household furnishings. The apartment is in a great area with large homes and spacious yards. Our apartment is a duplex that shares a lot with another duplex. It has a large living area and a big back yard that we share with our neighbors. It is a great place for our family and we look forward to being able to move in. Right now we are staying with Rick and Suzanne until we are able to get it ready and buy the necessary furnishings. Friday, we signed the renters contract and received the keys. Saturday, we spent the day cleaning the apartment, and I spent the afternoon with some of the women of the church while Ryan cleaned some more. Ryan spent the evening at a men's Bible study. Today, we spent the morning worshipping with the Body of Christ here in La Romana and tonight we will prepare for the work team that will arrive tomorrow. Wow! What a week! I will keep you all posted as we get settled in and I hope to have some pictures of the house once we get settled.

Update

2009-12-21T23:05:00.002-06:00

Sorry we haven't posted since October. We have been busy. We finished up language school in November and returned to the US. We have been spending the past few weeks visiting churches, friends and family. We plan on spending Christmas with our family in the Roanoke area. Then we are headed to the Dominican Republic on January 13. We will keep you all posted.

La Carpio

2009-10-09T23:18:00.006-06:00

La Carpio is a neighborhood of mostly immigrants in San Jose. It is a poor area streaming with young children. A few years ago, a Thursday afternoon children's ministry began to help minister in that area. Each trimester students from the Spanish Language Institute volunteer to be a part of that ministry. This trimester, I have had the opportunity to be a part of. The above pictures are of a few of the precious children that attend the program. The following link is a video about La Carpio that a former student of the Spanish Language Institute made. He is now serving as a missionary in Costa Rica and does some outreach ministries in La Carpio. Next week, I will be teaching a lesson at La Carpio in Spanish. So say a special prayer for me and the children of La Carpio. I'll update you again next week.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5n9R9rkyONw

It's a boy!

2009-10-03T19:03:00.004-06:00

Congratulations to Neil and Ashley and of course big sister Ava on the arrival of their newest family member. Harrison Ethan was born September 30 and weighed 7 pounds and 11 ounces. Ryan and Erin are proud to me Harrison's aunt and uncle and Micah is proud to be his big cousin.

We look forward to meeting him when we visit the US this coming Holiday season. We are so thankful to God for Harrison and our family.

Look to the SON

2009-10-03T19:00:00.005-06:00

This past Saturday started out like a typical Saturday for our family. After off and on rain showers, Carlos came by to see if he could wash the car. Carlos is a Tican man that washes our car on a regular basis. He is deaf and unable to speak. He uses a little bit of sign language but communicates mostly with grunts and general hand motions. I looked to the sky, not wanting him to wash the car if it was about to rain, and noticed that the sun was burning away the darker clouds from the morning. “Okay, no rain for now,” I thought and nodded my head giving him permission to wash the car. Carlos smiled at Micah as he invited Micah to wash the car with him. “You’ll soak your tennis shoes! Go change them first,” I instructed Micah. Micah ran into the house to put on “car wash shoes.” I scrambled between assisting Micah with his shoe selection and helping Carlos hook up the water hose outside. I noticed that Carlos was looking at the sky but thought he too was trying to predict the weather. Carlos pointed to the sun. Our neighborhood guard, Luis glanced up at the sky, smiled and nodded. “Oh good,” I thought, “We all agree, it isn’t going to rain.” I returned to the house to see if Micah had finally made his shoe selection. When I came back outside, Luis and Carlos were still looking at the sky. I glanced up at the sky and then gave Micah the water hose. Carlos once again pointed to the sky and grunted “sol” which means sun. I grinned, happy to see the sun. But Carlos pointed again, this time handing me his sunglasses. I put on his glasses and looked at the sky again and noticed a perfect break in the clouds around the sun. “That’s neat,” I thought as I instructed Micah to put the water on the car not the sidewalk and gave Carlos his sunglasses back. Carlos joined Micah and they washed the car. A few moments later, Ryan came outside. Carlos stopped washing the car and pointed to the sky again. Ryan looked to the sky and exclaimed, “Wow, it’s a huge rainbow around the sun.” I looked to the sky and noticed what I now know is called a solar halo. There was a huge halo encircling the entire sun. Carlos had been trying to tell me but I had not listened. I had been too busy predicting rain, setting up the water hose, searching for the perfect pair of play shoes and telling my son what to do. I had missed it completely! I quickly got my camera and began taking pictures. The halo was so huge that I was unable to capture the entire circle on my camera, and minutes before, I had not even seen it! That day, God reminded me that many times we are so busy with our lives that we forget to look to the Son. Carlos repeatedly pointed me to the sky, but each time I missed it because I was preoccupied with trivial tasks. God is doing amazing things; we just have to slow down enough that we notice them. Usually His plans are so great we can’t even imagine what he may be doing. And when we finally see how is working, we are amazed that we didn’t see it before! Praise God for people like Carlos that help point us back to the Son when we get distracted by things less magnificent. And praise God for reminding me how great He is with Saturday’s solar halo!

Vacation. . . it was so nice

2009-09-04T21:43:00.005-06:00

Our vacation is officially over and we have been back to classes for a week now. During our vacation between the first and second trimesters, we had to renew our visas so we traveled back to the US. We enjoyed seeing family and friends but the trip seemed so short that we didn't really get to relax that much. Well this vacation break was two weeks long and we had some friends and family visit us! It was wonderful because we got to visit with friends and family, see some of Costa Rica, and relax! It was a much needed break. It was great how God used the time to refresh us in so many ways.

The first week of vacation began when we picked up Ryan's sister, and two of our best friends at the airport on Sunday. We got to enjoy one another's company in San Jose for about 24hours before we headed west to Punta Leona, a beach resort on the Pacific coast. My former teacher and friend, David offered us his grandparent's beach house for the week. So David, Daniel, Dana, Erin, Ryan, Micah and I spent the week in a house overlooking the Pacific ocean. It was a great time of relaxation with good friends.

The following week, Dana and Daniel returned to the US and Jeanie, my mother-in-law, came down for the week. We enjoyed hanging out in town while helping Erin, my sister-in-law, get settled into her new home and classroom here in Costa Rica. (Erin is now teaching 3rd grade at the Sojourn Academy, an international school located on the campus of the Spanish Language Institute (ILE)that we attend.) And with Micah occupied by his grandmother, Ryan and I had time to look forward to our approaching transition to the Dominican Republic.

During that same week, we also welcomed Andrew Butz to San Jose and to ILE. Andrew also wll be studying Spanish as he plans to work in the Dominican Republic (DR) with Eastern Dominican Christian Mission. His ministry focus in the DR will be a camp and conference center in the eastern portion of the country. We have had the opportunity to work with Andrew on a short term mission trip in the past and we look forward to being able to share this time with him while we are all in language school.

Near the end of our vacation, we gradually warmed up to the idea of returning to school by helping out with the new student orientation. The school welcomed a large group of students entering their first trimester at ILE. We are excited to get to know other students wanting to serve God in Latin America.

God allowed us to be renewed so we were able to enter our final trimester with excitement and a eagerness to learn everything we can in our last few months here in Costa Rica. What a nice vacation.

Vacation!

2009-08-24T22:12:00.003-06:00

Photo taken on Playa Blanca, Punta Leona, Costa Rica

Story to follow. . .right now, I'm too busy relaxing!

Another milestone!

2009-08-15T22:18:00.003-06:00

We just completed our second of three trimesters in language school. Praise God! It really is amazing how quickly this past trimester has gone. I feel that we have learned a lot and sometimes I wonder where all the information will fit in my brain. Surely my brain has to be reaching its capacity! The greatest part is though classes ended Thursday, we live in Costa Rica, so everyday is a learning opportunity. Just this week, Ryan has had the opportunity to communicate with a mechanic (that's a whole different story) while I have had the opportunity to get to know our Tico neighbors. I feel the need to begin each conversation with an apology and warning, something like the following: "I am sorry. I am learning Spanish. Any way that I may slaughter the Spanish language in the following minutes is not intented to be offensive to you or any other Spanish speaker. Thank you for your patience." But I don't. I've learned that I CAN communicate, though not perfectly. I've learned that Ticos are wonderfully kind and patient. And I am thankful to God that they allow us to torture them with our terrible Spanish. So this weekend, we celebrate one more trimester down! One more trimester closer to serving the people of the Dominican Republic in a calling from God that we are honored to be answering. Please praise God with us for all He has done in our lives to make language learning rewarding and enjoyable. Continue to pray for us as we head into our final trimester, I believe it will be the most demanding one yet. And please pray for our new home in the Dominican Republic. Pray that God is preparing the way for us in the details of our anticipated arrival, as well as in the hearts of the people we will have the opportunity to serve along side of and minister to.

Where did July go?

2009-08-04T17:10:00.011-06:00

Ryan just pointed out to me that it has been over a month since I posted anything on the blog. For those of you that may be following us, I am sorry! This month has flown by. So I decided to just give you all a quick run down of some of the things happening in our lives. We began this month by celebrating Micah's 3rd birthday. A few of our friends got together at a nearby park and had a fun time together. Of course there was cake and icecream but we also had a pinata, a very Latin tradition. It was tons of fun and we were blessed by the fellowship and gifts that our friends shared that day. We also had a treacherous adventure to Sarchi, a nearby town known for its handycafts. However, the brakes on our "new" car went out on us and we spent the day at a mechanic's shop in Grecia (a little town 15 minutes from Sarchi) while praising God for his protection and provisions. (More details in our July newsletter) Since we had promised Micah a fun day, we spent a little bit of time playing baseball in Grecia's townsquare and eating icecream before heading back down to San Jose with our new brakes! Later in July, we had the opportunity to enjoy a birthday party of another friend. Micah and all the guests were thrilled to have inflatable games to play in. What a party! Then the department of health closed down all schools and child care centers in order to prevent a furture spread of the Swine Flu. But our language school did not close. So Ryan and I spent the week taking turns watching Micah while the other was in class. Though a week without childcare made our schedule hectic, I enjoyed being able to spend the days with Micah again. I am looking forward to settling down in the Dominican Republic when my role as a mother will once again consume most of my day. Then just at the end of the month, we had to leave the country for 72 hours to renew our visas. We decided to zip over to St. Petersburg, FL for a long weekend and got to enjoy the beach, Busch Gardens and shopping with some of our family. Ryan got to celebrate his birthday a little early with Dairy Queen Cake and pizza by the pool in Florida! Once back in Costa Rica, we celebrated Ryan's birthday with our housekeeper, Marta. Ryan and Marta share a birthday. We had a little cake and exchanged some small gifts after lunch that day. All this happened while spending each week in classes studying Spanish. (which continues to progress little by little, some days better than others! ) I am thankful to God for how He continues to provide for us, not only our needs but many of our desires. What a busy wonderful month!

A "new" car

2009-06-27T09:38:00.001-06:00

Since the rainy season is now here, it has made our life a little more difficult. The short walks to the grocery store, or to catch a cab to nearby shopping are now complicated by timing the trip to avoid torrential down pours. Though MANY people live like this, we have been praying that a affordable opportunity would arise for us to own a car. And God blessed us. A missionary associated with the school was returning to the states and wanted to sell his car and at a great price. So we are now proud owners of a 1992 Ford Explorer! We look forward to the convenience of life with a car again! We also are grateful that we already have a buyer for when we leave Costa Rica for the same price we paid! Praise God for helping meet not only our needs but our desires too.

Culture Day

2009-06-27T09:25:00.002-06:00

We had a wonderful Culture day at school on Friday, June 19. The teacher’s shared with us about the tradition of the local “Turno” or carnival and how they are a large part of the Tican culture. Ryan and his grammar teacher, Francisco started the events off with a LOUD fireworks display as is traditional in all turnos. The fireworks were followed up by the commencement of carnival type games complete with our teachers as “carnies”. It was a great day to spend having fun with the staff and students at school without the stress of studying Spanish.

Our Anniversary

2009-06-15T16:07:00.003-06:00

We celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary last night by going to a wonderful Peruvian restaurant called Inka Grill. We enjoyed delicious food and the company of one another. I thank God for my husband, whom leads our family to follow God's will in our lives. I couldn't be happier and plan to spend many more years serving God with my beloved Ryan. Happy Anniversary to us! :)

A Shocking Experience...

2009-05-30T13:41:00.003-06:00

Ok, in the states I am sure someone would sue for this, but we are in Latin America....not going to happen. This really is just a short blog about how life is a little different here than in good old Virginia. I went to a nearby pulperia (small grocery store) earlier today to buy a coke and a gatorade to replenish my depleated system (I have been sick for about a week). I reached my hand in the very normal looking refrigerator, the kind that you find full of cokes, pepsi's, and other sodas at a Stop-in or something. But when I put my hand in the fridge, I got shocked!! That's right, something shocked me and I jolted backwards! Simaltaneously the lights to two full fridges went out and the same time. After coming to (ok, it wasn't that bad), I looked inside the fridge and low and behold there were the electric wires for the fridge sticking out off the side of the fridge. Uncovered, contacted and exposed!! I had scrapped the wires with my pinky finger and received my first shock from a refrigerator!!! Hey, just part of being a missionary in a different country I guess.

Rain, Rain

2009-05-30T11:00:00.002-06:00

Well, we have entered into the rainy season in Costa Rica, and it is just that. Evidently the rainy season begins in May and goes through October, progressively getting worse each month. Right now it is beautiful in the mornings and then gets cloudy about midday. Then it rains all afternoon and usually into the night. I asked our empleada "house-keeper" how she lives during the rainy season because this much rain is new to me. She laughed and responded with the word "Mojado," which means "wet." She said that you just take your umbrella everywhere and just expect to be wet all the time. Therefore, that is what we do. Everyday after class, we bundle up in our rain jackets with hoods, our waterproof covered stroller and make a run for it to our house, which is about a 20 minute walk from our school. Praise God for the rain and the good it does for our earth. However, it will take some getting used to for us Gringos that are not used to living in the rain.

Now for the REAL Champion!!

2009-04-08T16:17:00.004-06:00

Here in Costa Rica (and in most of Latin America) this week is called "Semana Santa," or Holy Week. There are numerous celebrations, parades and parties all throughout the country. However, many of the festivities are fueled by the Roman Catholic Church, which puts more emphasis on the death of Jesus than on the resurrection. Many times they leave Jesus on the cross. I pray that this week is a "Holy Week" for you. A special week in which you remember what Jesus did for you on that cross. But don't leave Him there. He is ALIVE! Jesus esta vivo! He is alive and He lives in me!! Amen! Praise God! Thank you Jesus!

And Then There Was Only One!!!!

2009-04-06T22:08:00.000-06:00

CHAMPIONS!!

Then There Were Two...

2009-04-04T21:40:00.002-06:00

Go Tar Heels!!!!!

Then There Were Four....

2009-03-29T22:19:00.000-06:00

Go Tar Heels!!!!!

A La Playa

2009-03-24T17:30:00.008-06:00

Costa Rica has many wonderful things to see. They have cloudforests with thousands of animals, cities with dozens of museums, and beaches with beautiful water and wild monkeys. That's right, white-faced monkeys roam freely on the beach as if you are invading their space. Near the end of February, we had the opportunity to take Micah to Manuel Antonio, one of the closest white sand beaches in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio is very popular and very touristy. Along with a beautiful public beach, Manuel Antonio has a National Parque that offers visitors the chance to see various types of animals. We decided to take Micah into the National Parque since we both love monkeys so much. On our short hike through the park we so several sloths, butterflies and a Jesus-lizard (it gets it's name because it walks on water).

The walk was great, but the 3 private beaches inside the park were what we were really there for. These beaches are beautiful white sand beaches with beautiful blue water dangling on the edge of a rain forest and are less populated than the public beach. Micah played in the sand and water with several of his friends from school all day long! At one point, the infamous white-faced monkeys begin strolling the beach and looking for things to steal. That's right, they walk directly over your towel and steal any food that you have lying out. Then the beach racoons came walking down the beach followed by the massive lizards. Talk about wildlife, this place is truly a paradise. Praise God for the opportunity to relax and play in the sand with Micah.

Hi ho, hi ho, it's off to work we go!

2009-03-23T12:10:00.003-06:00

Monday-Friday we leave our house shortly after 7:00. On a good morning, we are out by 7:15 and we enjoy a leisure 5-10 minute stroll to school. We drop Micah off at his school first. After tearful good byes, Ryan and I head up the hill to the other side of campus where we begin our day's work. We don't punch a clock and our teacher's don't even seem to care if we are a few minutes late, but don't underestimate the task that lies ahead each day. From the moment we enter the classroom, our focus is LEARN SPANISH. We listen to Spanish, read in Spanish and try our best to speak Spanish. Our teachers have gotten a bit more ridgid since they welcomed us less than three months ago because they too understand the task at hand. We MUST learn Spanish. In order to function in our daily lives, it is necessary. Whether giving directions to a cab driver, talking to Micah's teachers, or meeting people at church, it is necessry. But that is just our day to day living. In order to answer God's call in our lives to minister to the people of the Dominican Republic, it is most necessary.

Date Night- Feb 21

2009-03-07T19:06:00.004-06:00

Ryan and I enjoyed a beautiful evening with some friends high atop the mountains of Costa Rica at a wonderful restaurant, Ram Luna. We enjoyed fine dining and local music and dance. I even got roped into participating in a traditional dance. It was wonderful for us to leave our son with a trusted babysitter and have the time to enjoy one another. Our friends, that we dined with are also missionaries. We enjoyed hearing about the passion God has written on their hearts to serve the people of Central America, as we had the opportunity to share our heart for the people of the Dominican Republic. It's amazing how God used that one night to refresh and renew us. It also allowed us to see how God is preparing us and others to serve as missionaries throughout Latin America. We praise God for our date night!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T11:23:00.002-06:00

We wanted to send our love to you and wish you a very happy day with the ones you love!

Love,

Erin, Ryan and Micah

A day in the life

2009-01-28T20:50:00.001-06:00

We've finally settled into our daily routine here in Costa Rica. On Monday through Friday, mornings are occupied with language classes. My first two classroom hours are spent in a classroom with a beautiful view of the mountains that surround us here in Costa Rica's central valley. It's nice that they remind me of the view of the mountains from our old house in Roanoke. And I am thankful that God has allowed us this year here to learn Spanish while living in such a beautiful place. Micah is usually wiped out in the early afternoon so he takes a nap. Since it is culturally acceptable to take an afternoon siesta, Ryan and I also participate on occassion! (We want to take in as much of the culture as we can, right!?!) When not taking a siesta, we use the uninterupted time to study and do homework. The afternoons are my favorite part of the day. We usually take some sort of outing. Since we live within walking distance of quite a few parks, we enjoy meeting other students and thier families and our Tico neighbors at the nearby playgrounds. Other afternoons are spent walking to the grocery store, local bakery or taking a taxi to nearby shopping. (We've discovered that Micah's stroller doubles as a shopping cart for the walk home. If it's a long walk home, Micah gets to ride on Daddy's shoulders.) We haven't ventured downtown yet but look forward to the many museums and other local attractions the downtown area has to offer.

Micah and Ryan walking to church It's a humble life. Our life in Costa Rica is at a much slower pace than that which we knew in the US. Our life now allows most afternoons to include a little boy to play game of soccer with his daddy. Our life now allows family trips to the grocery store. Our life now allows time for reading and reflection. I am thankful to God that this is my life. I am glad that this is where are am right now, learning what He is teaching me and doing what He would have me to do. It's the coolest feeling to be right in the middle of where God wants you to be. I am praying that you are experiencing that in your life, and if you are not, I pray that you will seek God and discover where He would have you to be and what He would have you to do. Whether it's in Virginia, Siberia, the Dominican Republic or Costa Rica, it's the best place in the world.

Here are some pictures of some of our everyday outings and adventures.

My handyman and his little helper fixing the bed Micah's discovery of the tiniest gecko I've ever seen.

Playing at the nearby park.

Ryan, Micah and our neighbor's little girl having a snack. A game of basketball after church. The biggest one and the littlest one belong to me.

The playground at Micah's preschool

One week down. . . lots more to go

2009-01-17T07:52:00.001-06:00

This week we completed our first entire week of classes at ILE. It has been at least 10 years since I attended school five days a week so the schedule was the biggest adjustment for me. Ryan teased me that naps were as much part of my day as they were Micah's! Ryan and I tested at different levels so we are not in the same classes. Ryan's more advanced placement required his language learning to begin with total language immersion (no English). Since I am just a beginner, my teachers try to speak only Spanish until they see vacant eyes returning their glances and then offer enough English to return us back to the same planet they are teaching from. I might be accused of being a nerd for saying this, but I have really enjoyed the classes. It is just enough of a struggle to be challenging but not so much as to feel overwhelmed. Through the ILE staff, God is blessing us in meeting us right where we are in preparing us to speak Spanish. Praise God for that! Language learning was my greatest concern, and God is alleviating my fears.

Today is Saturday and we are not in classes today. Today our language study will not occur within the walls of a hill top campus, but rather while visiting with our neighbors. We have plans to visit the local market and to see a little more of what life is like in our little area of Costa Rica. So. . . Adios. . . for now.

In His love and service,

Erin

A serious note. . .please pray

2009-01-13T12:48:00.000-06:00

I first want to apologize for not having posted anything since Thursday's earthquake. We are fine as well as all the others attending the Spanish Language Institute or ILE. Micah and I rode out the earthquake while in the bathroom, which actually turned out to be a very safe place to be. Ryan was nearby and since he was standing actually rode out the waves while the tremors endured. Though kinda shook up, no pun intended, it was not until later that evening that we became aware of the magnitude of the earthquake and the devastation it caused in nearby areas. Praise God for keeping us safe. I want to take a moment to ask you all to please pray for those that were not as fortunate as us. Parts of Costa Rica, close enough to be visible from our hill top campus, were devastated by the earthquake. Last I heard 14 bodies have been recovered with still 23 people reported missing. Today they have scaled back the recovery with the unsettling reality that those still missing are probably dead. Please pray for those that are trying to rebuild what they may have lost during the earthquake and even more so for those that are mourning the loss of a family member or friend.

We made it!

2009-01-05T16:45:00.000-06:00

We arrived in Costa Rica on Saturday and spent the weekend getting settled in . We've had the opportunity to meet a few new friends already and are looking forward to our time spent here. Our neighbors, Alison and Justin and our big brother and sister, Jason and Lindsey have been great in helping with our transition. Our house is more than we expected and we are settling in to make it a home. We are located in a safe neighborhood located near the school. Micah and Ryan have enjoyed scouting out the neighborhood with their walking adventures. We attended an orientation for Micah's preschool today. He had a chance to meet a few friends and he was excited to see the playground and toys. Our orientation for classes begins tomorrow. We are excited to begin classes but a bit nervous too. We have already began to miss our friends and family and are sure they are missing us too. We are thankful for the Internet so we have been able to communicate with them even though we are not close by. I am amazed at how small the world can be made to see with air travel and the Internet. God continues to provide for us and we are blessed to be able to serve him in Costa Rica. Please continue to pray for our family as we look forward to what God has in store for us.

Home Sweet Home

2008-12-17T23:39:00.001-06:00

While I was praising God for Franklin and Ilonka's new home, God was working through our "Big Brother", Jason to find us a home in Costa Rica. Jason notified us today, that a deposit has been made and we now have a home. We are so excited that God continues to make a clear path for us as we plan to start language school in just a couple weeks. The best part of the house is that we have an extra bedroom, so visitors are welcome! I hope we'll see some of you in Costa Rica.

I tried to put pictures on here but couldn't. If you want, you can visit the website set up by Jason. http://web.me.com/jason.lindsey/Site_2/C.R._house.html#1 The passwords are both costarica. Creative, huh?!?

"Costa Rica- My Home"

2008-12-16T13:52:00.000-06:00

Recently we checked out a children's book from the library about Costa Rica to help facilitate our family discussion about our move. The book is called, "Costa Rica- My Home". Well, Micah immediately was drawn to the little girl in the book. In the story, the little girl lived outside of the city and helped her parents manage a small farm and family business. As I read the book to Micah, I explained to him that after Christmas we too would be living in Costa Rica. I told him about his new house, new school, new teachers, new church and new friends. After a few minutes I noticed Micah's attention span was fading fast, so I decided to quiz him. "So where are we moving after Christmas?" I asked. "Osta Ica, my home," Micah replied mimicking the title of the book. "That's right. And when we move there, there will be lots of new things, like. . . ?" "Animals," he answered. "Animals? Well there may be some animals there but what other new things will be there?" "New cows. . . ummm. . . new pigs. . . ummm. . . new horse. . . new animals. . . ummm. . . . . ummm. . . . . Mommy and Daddy," he stated proudly. Then I realized that Micah was reporting back the things he had read about in the story plus Mommy and Daddy. That's all he knew of Costa Rica yet he still was genuinely excited to go there. All he had to go on was the security of his mom and dad and a little bit more information and he was ready to go. Micah reminds me of how we should be as we prepare to leave for Costa Rica. We have the security of our Father and a little bit of information about what he has planned for us. Instead of worrying about the details of our house and what we should pack, we should be excited to know that God has lots of things planned for us as we follow His will. Please pray for our family as we prepare to move. Ask God to remind us that regardless of all the new things that may be in store for us and all the details that remain unknown, God will be with us in Costa Rica- My Home.

Welcome Home!

2008-12-15T11:19:00.001-06:00

When the team from NHCC left the Dominican Republic in November, the new parsonage was near completion. The team had accomplished a lot but there were still a few details left that prevented Franklin and Ilonka from being able to move in.

At the beginning of December, another team from Illinois arrived in the Dominican Republic to pick up where the NHCC team left off. I just received an update from Joni Colle, one of our board members as well as a member on the Illinois team. She was glad to announce that the parsonage is now occupied by Franklin and his family. Their first night in the house was December 11.

As Joni recalled in her email, the home is a beacon in the darkness of a developing town. A home built among the "plywood village" of transitional housing, it represents Franklin and his family's long term commitment to ministering to the people in Veron, Punta Cana. It draws people to the church and hopefully to Christ. How cool! And you thought it was just a house. :)

What a trip!

2008-12-03T10:20:00.000-06:00

Well, we are back from our short-term trip to the DR and we had a terrific Thanksgiving holiday. I went to the Punta Cana church plant for one week with 14 of my brothers and 1 sister from New Hope Christian Church. We did major landscaping for the sight which was greatly needed. We made a vegetable garden, a beautiful back yard, flower bed around the church tent, planted flowers everywhere, electrical work, painted the entire house, and tiled both bathrooms. Yeah, the team worked their tails off and accomplished a lot. This team worked extremely hard and I was very proud to be a part of it. A HUGE thanks to all of the team members for working so hard and for accomplishing so much. God really used you and you had a major impact of the community of PC.

Franklin and Illonka seem to be doing well. They are incredible children of God and EDCM is blessed to have them as the ministers to the Punta Cana area. Please continue to pray for the Punta Cana church plant, Franklin's family, and the entire DR country. We look forward to returning to the DR some time next year, speaking Spanish!! Thanks for praying for us.

They're back. . .

2008-11-29T13:10:00.000-06:00

So Ryan and the gang have been home for almost a week now. He promises to update the blog soon. We've been busy enjoying the Thanksgiving holiday with our friends and some out of town family too so no apologies, just excuses!

They have arrived

2008-11-19T09:09:00.000-06:00

I spoke to Ryan yesterday and things are going good so far. They arrived Monday afternoon without any major problems during their travels. The team had quite a few member that had not travelled outside of the country before and they were all settling in and busy at work. They were a bit disappointed to discover the house wasn't as far in completion as they hope so they will not be able to move the family in this week. However, there still is plenty of work and they are excited about serving. God has really blessed the team by sending a professional landscaper, Jason Lucas with them. It appears that landscaping around the home will be a large part of what they hope to accomplish. I will continue to keep you updated as I am updated too.

Headed to the DR

2008-11-13T14:38:00.000-06:00

In just five days Ryan will be departing with a work team from New Hope Christian Church to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The team is excited to be working on the final projects for the parsonage located on the new church site in Punta Cana. Please keep the team in your prayers as they travel to the DR to serve the people there. Please also pray for Franklin, Ilonka, Christopher and Alondra, the family that will be moving into the new home so that they may better serve the church of Punta Cana.

Ilonka and Franklin with their children Alondra and Christopher last year.

Ryan ,Micah and Christopher at the construction site in August. - Plans for the work team this upcoming week include the completion of the house and helping the family move into their new home.

We will update you with more pictures after Ryan returns.

2008-11-04T16:45:00.000-06:00

Last week, I (Erin) wished my co-workers farewell as my part-time position as a parent educator with First Steps ended. This is an exciting time for us as we go out in faith that God will continue to provide financially for our family since we no longer have an outside income beyond the support from churches and individuals giving to EDCM. I am surprisingly calm about our finances. I guess it is because I look forward to seeing the way God will meet our needs. Please pray specifically for our finacial needs as we are still waiting replies from a few churches as to if and how they may be able to support our ministry. Love, Erin

EDCM at Work

2008-09-12T07:53:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures of the work of Eastern Dominican Christian Mission: 1. Construstion Picture:The construction is our church plant in Punta Cana where Franklin and Illonka are ministering. This particular building will be the parsonage that they will live in while ministering in Punta Cana. 2. The Map: This map just gives you an idea of the the location of La Romana (where we will be living) and the surrounding cities. 3. The Man Picture: The men in the picture are the elders at the La Romana Church. These are Godly men that see through the eyes of Jesus. Please pray for these men as they try to lead their congregation to Jesus. 4. Party Picture: This pic was taken the last night we were in the DR in August. We had the elders and Victor's family over to Rick and Suzanne's to celebrate anniversaries. We had a great time!

Please continue to pray for EDCM and the work God is doing through them in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic.

Welcome!!

2008-09-11T14:41:00.001-06:00

Hello readers and welcome to the VandeLinde Family blog!! We are new missionaries serving the Dominican Republic and we are going to use this blogspot to keep our friends, family, and partners informed about how God is moving in our lives and in our ministry. We are excited about where God is taking our family and what He is going to do through us in the future. We thank you for reading our blog and being interested in what God is doing in our family and in the Dominican Republic. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!