Some fun in Cuenca

I am so excited about our plans to visit the states in less than 2 weeks!  I've been making a mental checklist of what I want to do...

-Eat as many dill pickles as humanly possible

-Love on my two nieces like crazy

-Get in some good belly laughs with my sister

-Experience the "donut truck"

-Aimlessly walk through aisles and aisles of merchandise in stores until I'm too overwhelmed and need to leave

-Conversations with friends over many cups of coffee

-Worship in English

-Drive!

The list goes on. 
But we're not just going so I can gain 20 lbs. eating all sorts of deliciousness.  We're also not going just so we can enjoy the luxury of flushing toilet paper and free drink refills at restaurants.  We will hopefully get to do all those things (and more), but a bigger piece of our upcoming visit is to share about what God has been doing in and through us, here in Ecuador.  Ivan and I recently visited the leaders in Cuenca and literally had no idea what we were going to do in Cuenca.  There was no schedule or plan and we were just simply there and ready to be a part of whatever God had for us.  Trips like that are always a bit nerve-racking for me because I prefer an agenda and an itinerary but it really just reinforced how good it is to trust in the Lord and follow His lead.  We not only got to be a part of a leadership meeting, a JAM (bible study) meeting, one-on-one time with kids and leaders, but also lunch with supportive adults, dinners with deep and encouraging conversations, and even time for a "date" with my husband. 

It is such a good reminder for me to trust that God will orchestrate the meetings and conversations that we need to have, as we prepare for our time in the states.  While I have meticulously written in names and places for speaking opportunities, friend coffee dates, and the like, I know that the agenda is something I need to hold loosely in my hands. 

It is easy to make an idol of routine, finding security within the boundaries you build around your life.  (Jesus Calling)

So do not worry, saying, "What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'  For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.  But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own."  Matthew 6:31-34 

My Granny helping me watch Ivan's niece and nephew