Rachel's Rhythm

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Trying to get Benjamin to smile for the camera

Tips when you marry an extrovert:

Keep the guest room ready for visitors
Extra food in the pantry
Make plans but stay flexible
Good cup of coffee for the mornings (after all the late nights)

As has become the norm, we've had our fill of visitors and activities this month. A friend (and former YL staff from Venezuela) made his way to Ecuador in November. If you've been watching the news and the situation in Venezuela then you know that life has become increasingly difficult for citizens. We have been helping our friend, Pedro, resettle in Ecuador and using his experience with YL to train and encourage our leaders here. I can empathize with him as he spends the holidays away from friends and family. He made a traditional food called "hallacas" which they normally make during this time. (Delicious!)

Creating the hallacas

Along with Pedro, we hosted one of Ivan's sisters (and her two children) at our home during Christmas. It was a very tangible "make room at the inn" experience for me. How many times have I heard a message this time of year about how we are to make room for Jesus to be in our lives and to also open up our homes/hearts to others? I had mentally made plans for a quiet Christmas day, with just Ivan and Benjamin. Thinking of new traditions we could implement as a family (of which we did none of). I always struggle when there is a change to the plans. While Ivan and I had agreed to keep Christmas day just "us", when we learned that his sister would be in Quito and her husband had to work, we changed our plans. Our niece and nephew were thrilled to have a sleep over with Tio Ivan, complete with a Christmas movie and popcorn. In the morning we had waffles and hot chocolate and while we didn't have gifts, there was great excitement in collecting the eggs from the chickens.

The gift of experiences shared.

The gift of time.

The gift of family.

The gift of laughter.

The gift of love.