Life is very full.  Sometimes it's a satisfying kind of full and sometimes it's an overwhelming, "did I take a shower this week?!?" kind of full.  The last month has been heavy in the administrative realm of the ministry, which feels less life-giving than hanging out with kids and leaders but I recognize it's importance.  Now that Benjamin takes shorter and less naps, I really have to stay focused to get those admin tasks done!  Through some conversations, we've realized that we need to make some changes in the area of administration and finances for YL Ecuador.  Ministry is growing, and that's a good thing!  But it means that some of our processes and ways of doing things are outdated and inefficient.  It's a big web of conversations, discussions and working together to find the best tools and ways to go about implementing and bringing about needed changes.  It requires much wisdom and patience.  So, as we anticipate changes, especially in the area of administration, I am feeling a little lost.  My role may change and I'm not sure how I feel about that.  It some ways it will be a relief to pass the baton to someone else on some of the responsibilities that I have and give more of my energy to things like chasing around my crazy toddler!  

Ivan and I have been leading a small group from our church, of young professionals, since the fall.  In all honesty, I was not too thrilled to take on this position as I felt like we are already doing SO much but Ivan jumped at the opportunity (typical reactions from us!).  We go further in depth on whatever the sermon covered and are given an outline to follow, so on the prep side pretty easy.  Of course, Ivan can't help but bring in a little bit of the YL flavor to our meetings, at the end of our time we have a small competition through often ridiculous games (currently guys vs gals) to determine who's in charge of the snack for the next week.  ;)  

I've been reading through the book of Isaiah and loved this verse (Isaiah 19:18 The MSG):

"On that day, more than one city in Egypt will learn to speak the language of faith and promise to follow God."  

As one who has learned another language, the idea of learning to speak the language of faith really connected with me.  I tell people often, that if I can learn a second language, ANYONE can!  When you think about best practices for learning a language, immersion is always at the top of the list.  So how do you immerse yourself in the language of faith?  Surround yourself with people who speak the language, situations where you are forced to use the language, etc.  Be immersed.  It takes time and practice and it must be learned.  God has been pretty clearly highlighting my need to learn a new language, a language of joy and positiveness.  And much like me learning Spanish, it's not going to happen overnight and there will be some struggle, awkwardness, and misunderstandings!  But it starts with the desire to learn, and continues with long hours of sticking to it!  What language do you want to learn?  

(We took advantage of our recent trip to Shell, to get some family photos taken...ENJOY!)  

He's our little monkey!