I often get asked how I ended up in Ecuador. 
Well, many years ago, my aunt and uncle were called to mission work with Wycliffe (Bible Translation).  They came to Ecuador about 15 years ago to serve the people of Salasaca.  I got to hear first hand many of those "missionary" stories of living in a different culture and the struggles and blessings of living overseas.  At the age of 16, I was determined to have my own experience and worked hard babysitting to save up my airfare money.  I went to stay with my aunt and her family for about 5 weeks in the summer.  As a 16 year-old with basically no Spanish, my skills were pretty limited but I helped babysit my two cousins and just be a part of their lives.  I still remember the first time my aunt sent me down the street to buy bread at the local bakery on my own.  The entire block I just kept repeating the Spanish phrases I needed to say.  I was terrified and am pretty sure I completely messed up the words.  Everyone said my life would be changed after being in a third-world country and I would come back a different person.  The truth is, I didn't really feel that way when I got back to the states.  Yes, I had experienced a completely different culture and seen new things but I still felt like I was "me" and who I was hadn't really changed. 
The beauty of that trip was that it seemed so normal in a way.  I was simply hanging out with my family and doing whatever they did.  After that trip I was interested in traveling more, and yes, maybe even doing mission work but still, I was a high schooler with plans of college, a career, finding that special someone and Ecuador was just a fond memory. 
My senior year in high school, my college plans were thwarted when my dad got a new job in a new state.  Plans were suddenly shifted and on hold.  It was at that time that my aunt sent me an e-mail, presenting an opportunity to serve in Ecuador.  Long story short, I ended up choosing to go to Ecuador for one year as a short-term missionary with then HCJB (now Reach Beyond) ministries.  I lived about 2 hours away from my aunt and her family but still it was nice to have those familiar faces to turn to during cultural differences and holidays.  One year turned into two and then the relationship between Ivan and I unfolded.  As they say, the rest is history! 
Well, this week, my aunt and her family made the big move back to the United States.  After 15 long years on the field, their project has been completed and they felt it was time to go.  I've watched them pack up their house, sell or give away almost everything, and say some tearful goodbyes.  They have been such an encouragement to Ivan and I, in our marriage and in ministry.  We have been incredibly blessed by their example of service and generosity.  It's hard to know they won't just be a few hours away anymore but we're excited for this next chapter of their lives and what the Lord has in store for them.  So, THANK YOU, Salay family for following God's call on your life and for all your love and support!  I guess everyone was right, that trip many years ago to Ecuador, really did change my life! 

Earlier days: Aunt Susan, me, and my cousin

Me and Emily in Quilotoa, Ecuador

Enjoying the mountains

Ivan, Uncle Larry, Robby

Praying for the Bible translation to bring new life to the people in Salasaca. 

"All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)