I'm Married!!! Mrs. Ginger Ranae Rowlett de Martinez!! November 7th, 2009, Ramfis and I celebrated in a perfectly us fashion on Lake Coatepeque in El Salvador. We were so blessed because most of my family, and a few of my closest friends were able to attend (a huge blessing). Also, that weekend there was a strong hurricane passing, and there was quite a bit of destruction and disaster in the country. The thing is, we had no idea because God blessed us with safe, beautiful skies for the ceremony. Granted, I was a bit worried before the wedding, thinking that our cool wedding inside the lake was going to be ruined. But, right at 3 p.m. (the hour we were supposed to start), the clouds parted and it stopped raining. There was even a little bit of sunshine. What's crazy is that before 3, we couldn't even see the mountains or the lake because it was all covered in a thick fog. So, we count the weather a miracle.

We got started late (no one was surprised :) ) because Ramfis' brother had carried the microbus to pick up some people, and he didn't have the ownership card. So, when the police pulled him over, they were going to take the car from him and fine him a lot of money. Well, I had the card, so they had to come get it from me without me knowing all of the chaos. I had no clue, but was upset that his brothers and people were late cuz we couldn't start. But, everything worked out fine, he didn't have to pay a fine, and we got married - regardless of the hour.

I entered the lake with my dad in a row canoe. The ferry boat thingy was already in the water, and Ramfis helped us onto the boat as my sister sang At Last with Ramfis'brother playing guitar. There started more disorder because I noticed that my decorations weren't how I'd put them, and they'd put this ugly green tent thing where we were to be married (from water falling down), and there were tables at the entrance!!! I was thinking, hello! How did the 3 hours that I wasn't present create such a mess??? But, whatever - supposedly we needed the tables for the Civil ceremony. But, I didn't like them. But, finally, after deciding where to stand and what to do with the tables in my way, we finally started the civil ceremony with a very nice lawyer that has become a friend of ours, Saul. See, in El Salvador, the civil wedding in mandatory, and the religious ceremony is optional. So, we had to have 2 ceremonies. Pastors and priests aren't authorized to marry here. Another cool thing is that we had 3 extra small motor boats circling our ferry boat full of friends that couldn't fit on the ferry because of the weight restricitons. It was funny and cool. They were floating around taking pictures.

We kissed our "first" wedding kiss, and then signed our papers. Then, preparation for the REAL wedding ceremony. I walked to the back with my sis and my Dad, and we waited for the sound to work and all to get settled. I had a chance to look around at the scenery, and I was in awe. It was perfect. We were on the water, with most of my favorite people, one of my favorite places, my favorite colors, beautiful climate, and to see the man I love hugging his Dad as tears run down his face. It's a lovely day. The song begins, and I walk the "aisle" down the boat. What's funny is that once again there was disorder because Ramfis, Uncle Mitch, and Mr. Mauro had put themselves outside, where no one could really see us. I'd appointed a place under the palms to get married. So, my dad and I stopped where I thought we were going to get married, and we waited on them to change positions. It was funny....I don't think anyone will forget this wedding.

Once we were in position, from there on out, it was smooth sailing. Uncle Mitch spoke wonderful words of wisdom, and shared passages of the Bible that I love, like 1 Cor. 13, the Love Chapter. Then, my Dad gave us his blessing, we wrote and said our own vows (loved it!!), exchanged rings, and then we did something special we wanted to do. We washed each other's feet in on the side of the boat to show humility and servitude to one another. This also gave us the chance to talk to each other a bit. It was our favorite part. As we performed this act, my Uncle Bubba sang the Lord's prayer. It was beautiful. We took a long time, so he probably could have sung another song, but it was great.

Then, we did a tradition here in ES. The lasso of unity. We elected my Nanny and Grandaddy to put the lasso around us, since they represent a marriage based in love, faith, respect, and service for 50 years! Mrs. Olympia (Ramfis'mom) explained the ritual, and my grandparents placed it on us as they whispered a quick blessing in our ears. Now, we were pronounced Mr. and Mrs, and we kissed.....again!!! Yeah!!!

The trio we hired began to play, and champagne and wine were served for a brindis, and we also took advantage of photo opps as we headed back to land for the reception. We had our first dance there on the boat. They say the boat went down on one side because everyone went to get wine and chat. But, I never felt it. They were freaked out about it, but I had no idea!!

As soon as we got into the restaurant for the reception, it began to rain again - perfect timing!! They announced us, and my Uncle prayed over us again for those that only came for the reception. Then, Alfredo Ramfis' other brother, came out to give a brindis and said he was going to give us something that truly shows unity. He then cuffed us!!! He had bought real handcuffs, and we had to be together all night!! We ate like that, sang and danced like that, etc. It was hilarious!! The food was delicious.....carne asada, baked potato, vegetables, sausage, bread and drink. Then, coffee and our cute cake with candies my mom made, and also some typical ones from here for dessert. We had a big shindig with different people playing instruments, singing, including some Southern Gospel with my grandparents and uncles. It was fun!! Then, started the disco party with dance music, Mardigras hats and stuff, and disco lights. That was a surprise for me, and it was a good surprise!! Fun!

I threw the bouquet, and Ramfis threw the leg thingy. His act was so original and funny. He had me stand on a bench, and he was looking under my dress, like that he couldn't find the ligo. Then, he comes out and has some granny panties!! He throws them and keeps looking (head under my dress)...then, he comes out with little girl panties!! He throws them again and they land on his nephew's head!! It was funny. Finally, he found the ligo and he took it off with his teeth. My friend Casey caught it, and my friend Jenny caught the bouquet. The funny thing is that they don't really get along, so it was ironic!!

We loved our wedding and our party. A huge thank you to my family and friends that traveled many many miles to attend and share this special day with us. Also, thank you for your patience with us, as it is a very different culture and time is looked at differently.

Another huge thank you to Julio, Don Julio and Alfredo for helping with transportation and logistics. Also, camera and photos. Couldn't have pulled it off without them!! To see more pictures, go to my facebook page. They're mostly all on there.

We love each other, we love you and we're so happy to begin our new life together!!!! God Bless!!

So, I'm back in El Salvador, this time for reasons other than humanitarian services. :) Oh, the grand welcome that I received!! I've never felt so surprised and undeservingly doted upon. Ramfis and his "crew" arrived all dressed up, saying that they were coming from producing all day. They had the film cameras, the production lights, etc. there at the airport. I think that the people there thought that I must have been someone famous. So, anyway, we start going, and Ramfis tells me that he has to go by EduClase to give some tapes that they're waiting for to show to a client. So, they were driving super fast, had someone calling the phone every 10 minutes, and me thinking that the client was mad because they left him waiting to pick me up from the airport. But, what happened is that Ramfis had rented a house right next to the EduClase building. So, we pull up, and all of a sudden I see lots of people I know....Ramfis' friends, family, my friends, etc. Then, I'm like, hey....this isn't EduClase. This is a house. "Ramfis, where are we?" And he stays quiet, just smiling. I get out of the van, and this guy's singing "Welcome back Ginger, welcome back Ginger, Welcome to your house...., Welcome back Ginger." The first time, i didn't hear it. But, the second time, I was like...what did he just say? Really?!? So, Ramfis says yeh, this is going to be your house, and I start jumping up and screaming. Hugs, smiles, tears, kisses all around to everyone that had made me feel so special. We enter the house, and there are balloons, a big welcome back banner, etc. In the backyard, there were tables and chairs, and a big barbeque with tenderloin, chicken, ribs, etc. Also, he had set up his production lights to highlight a band that sang in English. It was so cool.

So, since I've gotten back, I've been helping to fix up the place, mainly for the office of MOSH. We'll be operating the business out of the downstairs, and living upstairs. Everything's going really well, thank God. Today we had our first business meeting, defining everything. It's exciting, but I'm tired. I haven't even had time to really enjoy being with Ramfis because it's been go go go go since I got here. Hopefully next weekend we can have a romantic dinner or something like that. But, all is well. I just miss everyone, but God is blessing us here.

This is an extension of my last blog, regarding Federal Government and their desire to control. I want to apologize for my anger getting the better side of me. I've allowed them to "control" me in a sense already just from my anger and growing synicism effecting my moods and tongue. Instead of trashing the gov. or getting all mad and bitter, it's come to my attention that I need to see our leaders, and our nation, through God's eyes....to love them (we're supposed to love our enemies and friends), and to pray for their decision making skills. So, although I still want them to stay out of my life, everytime I watch the news or get angry about an issue, I'll remember to talk to God, and ask Him to give guidance and work some kind of a miracle to retain our country as a free one, and also one Under God.

What the crapt is our country doing to itself?!?! Am I seriously still in the land of the free??? Today Congress passed the Cap and Trade Bill, and I'm furious to say the least. Why in the H should I have to have a federal agent enter my home to make sure it meets standards before I can sell it? Why do my housing standards need to be the same as California's? TN doesn't have wild fires. I, Ginger, am not an idiot (although some may disagree). I, Ginger, have been raised and educated by my family and much schooling to know how to make a wise decision. If I, Ginger, decide unwisely, it is my decision; my fault; my consequences that I must face. If I, Ginger, were to make, and continue to make poor choices, I have many friends and family, and the local police force, to hold me accountable. We also have State governments, which are increasingly losing power.
Note to Federal Government: Stay out of my frickin' life!!!

As of Wednesday, June 24, 2009, I am officially an aunt!!! That's right....I will only go by "Aunt Ginger" from now on out. ;) It truly is a blessing, though!! Easton Kydon Bowen was born at 8:08 p.m. and weighed 8 lbs. 8 oz. He was 21 1/2 in. long, and has sandy colored hair. He's healthy and beautiful, thank the Lord!!! I love him soooo much already! Sheena and Kydon are so excited, and will be fantastic parents. I'm proud of them. Just watching them in these 4 days has been fun. I'm learning a lot for the future. :) Thank God for babies!!!

I just put up some new pics....check 'em out if you want! :)

This is what I sent in as my final report. Hopefully it will give you a good idea as to what I did in El Salvador. Thanks!

DESCRIPTION OF PEACE CORPS SERVICE
Ginger Ranae Rowlett
EL SALVADOR

Ginger Rowlett was chosen to serve as a Rural Health and Sanitation Volunteer in El Salvador. Upon arrival on February 7, 2007, Ginger began a ten-week pre-service training program which included instruction on sanitation infrastructure construction and participatory and health education techniques. In addition, Ginger received intensive cultural and language training through formal classes and community immersion activities. She lived with a Spanish-speaking host family during training, which provided her with the opportunity to practice her language skills and learn about local culture.

On April 24, 2007 Ginger was sworn-in as a Peace Corps Volunteer and began her two-year service in Potrero de Joco, a small agricultural village with poor crop return and little health education.

Ginger’s major work accomplishments can be divided into three main categories: youth development, health education, and infrastructure construction. Soon after her arrival in Potrero de Joco, Ginger had formal meetings with the ADESCO (local development association) and the Mayor regarding a possible health clinic and land options. After several months of research, bids, and ADESCO training on how to prepare a budget and solicitude, Ginger arranged for the buying of land for the future construction project. The Mayor’s office bought the land in the name of the municipality and donated it to the community. Although a Health Clinic was denied, the ADESCO is in the process of soliciting for a Community Center on the donated lot.

Wanting to assure that the community members knew of illnesses and prevention of those illnesses, Ginger formed a Women’s Health Day held once a month in her home, creating a comfortable environment for the women to ask questions and speak freely about the issues at hand. She made 86 house visits each month to follow up on the talks given, and also to invite the women personally to the health days. A few examples of sessions taught are: cervix cancer, breast cancer, urinary infections, yeast infections, STDs (including HIV/AIDS), diabetes, etc. Ginger was happy to know that after two years of giving health presentations, the nearest health clinic noted an increase in gynecological visits from Potrero de Joco, the majority being young ladies under the age of 25.

After completing a thorough census of her village, Ginger was ready to address the apparent need of a sanitary means to dispose of human waste. She gave talks in General Assemblies on the problems of exposed waste, along with the detailed explanation of how bacteria are transferred by flies, and the dangers of stomach and intestinal infections/diseases. After a month of preparation, the members of the village agreed to the project, and those interested signed up with a compromise to dig their own hole before December. Ginger wrote letters to friends and family in the U.S. to sponsor the project, and with their help, along with the cooperation of the Mayor and the Ministry of Health, 34 latrines were dug and built, providing a dry and more sanitary place to use the restroom. Along with the project, Ginger and the Ministry of Health provided training on proper latrine use and proper latrine maintenance. According to the mid-service census, there were fewer reported cases of diarrhea.

Noting an ongoing need for health preventative education, as well as a need to solicit health campaigns and other projects, Ginger interviewed and selected six members of the community that showed an enthusiasm and true interest in the village’s well being to form a Health Committee. These members were also well respected among the community, making it easier to do house visits. Ginger focused on capacitating the members for the first four months in First Aid, Reproductive Health, CPR for adults and children, and how to give a health presentation. The committee also received training from Intervida and Centa on child and maternal health. The committee was quickly welcomed as health volunteers for the aforementioned organizations, and Ginger oversaw the electoral proceedings of the board of directors. With the health committee, Ginger organized a grass-roots trash campaign to educate families on proper trash disposal, the environmental effects of waste, the respiratory infections caused by smoke, and how trash thrown on the ground calls more flies, mosquitoes, and rats: all vectors of disease. The community reacted well to the house visits, and all participated in the cleaning of the village. The Mayor agreed to send a garbage truck once a month for free; a first step toward a cleaner Potrero de Joco.

Wanting to concentrate more on youth development, Ginger formed a girls’ softball team a couple of months after her arrival. Using softball as an excuse, Ginger was able to give life lessons on leadership, responsibility, teamwork, and self-esteem. Enjoying her work with the youth, Ginger met with the school director and ACE to coordinate a “Como Planear Mi Vida” (A Life Skills workbook provided by Peace Corps) class for the 9th grade. Ginger began teaching the sessions in February of 2008, discussing topics such as how to make goals, self-esteem, how to communicate with others, sex education, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS education, interview skills, how to choose a job that’s right for you, among others. She completed the semester with a Career Exposition for the entire “tercer ciclo” (7th, 8th, and 9th grades) with games, lunch, and prizes. Ginger invited professionals for an afternoon to explain their career paths, and their educational history. This proved to be a very inspirational event for the students to want to pursue their education. Present were the Mayor, a Psychologist, a TACA flight manager, a Secretary, a Shop Owner, and a Producer/Editor/Designer.

The school proved to be an excellent work base, and Ginger decided to put more efforts in the school’s infrastructure problems, as well as how to provide a more exciting environment for the children and youth to want to attend their classes. She worked hard to attain a SPA fund from USAID to re-cover the school’s roof. The roof was extremely damaged, and the school had to close often during rainy season. Thankfully, the Ministry of Education was able to give aid as well, and men from the community donated their labor to re-roof all of the classrooms and kitchen area. In the midst of the roof project, Ginger was busy bringing home two computers for which she had solicited many months before that were donated by local businesses for the school’s use.

Wanting to help a young girl in 9th grade continue her education, Ginger used the WYD Peace Corps Scholarship to ensure that the young lady would have a high school education. When the student didn’t win the scholarship the second year, Ginger initiated a community scholarship fund for young women with funds donated by friends and family in the U.S. The scholarship gives girls with a desire to continue their studies, but without the means, the opportunity to continue their education beyond ninth grade.

Ginger also taught English to six young people interested. The class, which met once a week for two hours, has gone from knowing nothing to being able to have a basic conversation with an English speaker.
After two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer in a small rural village in El Salvador, Ginger feels more aware, more courageous, and ready for whatever life presents her. She is extremely grateful for the challenges faced, the goals met, and the failures. The endless list of life lessons learned will undoubtedly serve her well in the future. Not only is Ginger leaving the Peace Corps with new development skills and ideas, but also with a better understanding of human nature, and friendships that will last regardless of frontiers.

My apologies for there being such a loooooonnnngg pause between the blogs. A lot has been going on, so....that's my excuse. :} Ramfis and I just got back from 11 days in Guatemala. It was really fun, and despite it being an incredibly dangerous country, thank God we were safe and enjoyed good company the entire time. We visited Antigua, climbed Volcan Pacuaya, went to Semuc Champey, Rio Dulce, Livingston, Playa Blanca, and Esquipulus. It was packed, but at the same time very relaxing, and I enjoyed getting away from the drama and stress of everyday Salvadoran life.

Well, congratulations to me....I finished Peace Corps!! I finished in March, and went to Tennessee to visit for 2 weeks, and now I'm back in El Salvador again. It's wierd; being a former volunteer. I've had experiences and lessons and trials that no one at home can understand, no matter how much I try to explain. Then, I feel wierd around the present volunteers and PC staff because I'm not "one of them" anymore, technically. Then, I'm living in the capitol as a normal Salvadoran, but I'm clearly not. It's like I'm half foreigner, half native.....in both countries. The plan was to work and see how all of that goes, but I can't really do my job yet because of some asuntos. However, I have been helping out with Ramfis' business, and organizing, planning, etc. I'm just waiting for all to be ready for me to visit busineses and sell. We'll see. But, I'm also open to other options right now. Honestly, I need some money. I can't complain, though...God has been very generous to me, and if the life of a volunteer paid for life, how great that would be, no?!? So, anyway, now I'm just rambling. I am excited, though, about what's to come. I'll be an aunt soon, will get to see all of my old friends and classmates at the 10 yr reunion, I'll dance this summer :), etc etc. I'll be travelling through the States this summer, seeing friends and family that is long overdue!! Then, we'll see what God has in store. Obviously, I have my plans, but since things are apt to change in life, it's better not to tell the whole world just yet. I'll keep you posted.

But, before I close, I'd like to say thank you to all who have supported me in this journey. Thanks for prayers, cards, comments, calls, packages, etc. God has truly blessed my time in El Salvador, as well as made me a stronger person from failures and lifes' struggles. I don't think I really understood pain before coming here, and maybe I still don't. But, life isn't all peaches and cream. It's hard. Most people in the world suffer....and not just because someone's sick, or the occasional boy/girl drama. I'm talking extreme daily suffering. Thank God I haven't known that life, but to have seen a glimpse of it, I can appreciate it and hopefully not take my life, nor luxuries, nor necesities - for granted. Or even better; live a full life, without necesity of luxury. Solo Dios me puede ayudar.

We went to the zoo for the first time in El Salvador last week. It was kind of sad because the animals don´t have the space and environment I´d prefer for them. Also, they looked sad. But, there were a few areas that were well-maintained and cool. The snake house was cool. Some crazy looking animals. Plus, the tigrillo is the little baby tiger that lives in the mountains of Central America. It´s sooooo cute....like a cat. It was a fun day.

I graduated from Peace Corps!! I got the certificate, and thank God that I´m almost done!!! I only have one month left, and I´m a free woman! :) Okay, so it hasn´t been so bad, but living with my host family has burned all of the nerves I had left, and I´m running out of patience. Plus, I´m really excited about starting a new journey here in the city of El Salvador. I´ve been making plans for living arrangements, work ideas, getting residency together, a license, etc. There´s much to do, but it´s all exciting. Hopefully the Production Company that Ramfis and I are going to be running will be successful. It makes me nervous, but at the same time it´s fun. The thing that scares me the most is that El Salvador´s economy stinks, and I don´t know how we can make well enough to live the same as if I were in the U.S. Granted, it´s a different country with different problems. I just pray that God blesses our work, and also uses me here to continue serving. Also, I hope to find a church where I can serve and grow. I like the Catacumenal (sp?) Catholic Church where I go sometimes when I´m in the Capitol, but I´m not Catholic.  We´ll see....trusting God to provide the light on the path. I had my COS conference where we talked about the transition back to the States. It was a great time...on the beach, and great information. However, everything was about moving back to the States, and I´m staying here. So, it made me kind of want that experience of going back home. Life is strange, isn´t it? It throws big curves when you least expect it.

p.s. the first picture is the computer pick-up. Finally, after months and months, we have 2 computers in the school!!! It´s so exciting, and everyone´s pumped about learning. I´m teaching basic computing classes to the teachers and the 7th - 9th grades. Plus, we have a new roof....no more wet children and materials!! I feel good about being able to leave those things with the students. I´m going to try and get more compus and printers, but it will be a while before they receive them. But, hey, 2´s better than none! Yeah!

I´d still really like to open up a hostel/café here or there or anywhere. I just wish I knew more about starting up a business. I´m looking into house prices here and location for a possible hostel. Then, little by little it can become a restaurant/café. We´ll see. But, I´ve always wanted that, and if it´s here....cool. If I move to Guatemala, I´ll do it there. If I go back home, I´ll do it there. I may be 50 years old, but God willing I´ll have it someday.

Also, there are so many ways to volunteer and serve here in El Salvador. I´m praying that God shows me where he wants to use me, and how. I think I could be a great liason between the U.S. and here for sponsorship and mission funding. So much on my mind, and absolutely no idea where to start!!!

Babies are such lovely blessings, aren´t they?!? Sheena told me today that she´s having a baby boy! I´m so excited to be an aunt....hopefully I´ll get to be present in his life. She said he´s really healthy and was super active in the tummy. Thank God for that.

Well, everyone says we´re in crisis. But, here it´s not so different. We´re always in crisis. I just hope that because we use the dollar that here they won't up the prices on everything again. I don´t know how the average person survives in the towns and cities. The cost of living is 7 times more than the pay scale. It´s serious here. I wish people would notice and start to make waves about the condition of life in El Salvador. I know all over the world, there is crisis and people suffering. But, I think the U.S. has more of a responsibility with ES because this country is basically sold to the U.S.....the banks, the government, the money, the businesses, etc. I know it´s ES´s leaders´fault for the situation, but we could help them out since we like to use them so much for our benefit.  They went to war for us....the only Latin American country to do that. They need a change.  I, living here, need to see a change.

Happy Belated Thanksgiving!!! I´m so thankful for how I was able to spend Thanksgiving this year. A group of 7 volunteers and I cooked in a hostel on the beach. It was fabulous, and then we had a bonfire on the beach in the night. It was sentimental, and delicious! I missed my family, but it was a very good sit-in. Plus, this year I got to go to the Carnaval of El Salvador. It was okay, although I wouldn´t want to be in the push and shove again. But, the music was good. Next year I think I´ll only go for the rides. :) Also, I recieved VERY good news recently....I´m going to be an Aunt!!! :) I´m so excited!! Sheena´s pregnant and due in June, so I´ll get to be there, God willing, for all of the excitement.

Now that Christmas is around the corner, I´m a bit saddened about not being home, but really I´m getting excited about the local plans. We´re going to make the best out of it. The kids and I have been making paper ornaments, and the other day I bought little lights...we have a small pine needle tree outside our door, so we´ve been decorating that tree. It´s fun. Plus, I´ve been practicing Christmas songs on my keyboard, concocting dessert recipes to cook for my neighbors, and we´ve planned a small Christmas party with our Health Committee. We´re going to exchange gifts and everything!! Yeah! So, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! Hugs and Kisses, and will write more around Christmas time.

Well, I apologize for the delay in writing...but, it was either for a lack of activity, or too much!!!

I'm sitting here on my last night in the USA before I go back to The Savior (ES). It's been a fantastic vacation at home, and I've enjoyed every second of it!! I got to have a weenie roast, eat lots and lots (gained 8 lbs...seriously), go on a hayride, through a corn maze, and pick pumpkins, then carve a pumpkin, ride the 4-wheeler with dad, talk politics, laze around on my big comfy couch, talk with friends, go shopping, eat Thai food, go to cafes, take hot showers...etc etc. It's been great.


Being home, I realized how much I love where I'm from. Before, I always wanted to get as far away from Greenfield as possible, but now I truly appreciate the small town charm with warm people. Plus, it's clean! hahaha. Maybe someday I'll end up closer to home than I ever imagined. I hope so. Also, Bethel Baptist's pastor is really awesome. He's so easy to talk with...like a normal person, you know? It's refreshing. Also, his wife's amazing!! She barely knows me, but is the most consistent person next to my mom that sends me packages and cards in the mail. Plus, I was aware that people are growing here. That's really nice to see. It makes me want to eventually settle down and invest in a community wholeheartedly to actually see the fruits of seeds planted in many years. So far in my life, I haven't stayed in one place longer than 2.5 years!! (other than college). So, maybe one day I'll actually throw my butterfly wings off and "just be". Or not. Even writing this, those wings begin to flit. hahaha

This weekend has been all about Birthdays!! Mine, Ester's, Ramfis', and Gladys'. Lots of fun, and lots of work!! We had a blast, though. There was wine, there was cake, there was pizza, there were balloons, there was pink, there were fireworks, there were paper crowns, there were police (see fireworks above) ;), there was laughter, there was chocolate, and lots and lots of chicken!! The day before and of the Quinceanera, I and all of the other women, were killing, plucking, cleaning, and cooking 80 chickens. Then, there was the cleaning, the decorating, cooking and preparing for rice and salad, for tortillas, ice for soft drinks, etc. Needless to say, we didn't sleep much, and we were pooped!! Ester looked beautiful, though...and everything went smoothly. They had a small church service where they focus on her, and then the lunch and cake and presents down at our house. She seemed happy. Then, Ramfis, Gladys, Armando and I left for the beach to have some fun in the sun and do some relaxing and chatting. It was so great!! Then, on Sunday I had planned a surprise party for Ramfis, and that went perfectly!! He was totally surprised, and loved it! Plus, we got the pizzzas for free because they came late...how cool is that??! I made a chocolate cake, and we had the house all decorated. His friends are amazing...they really helped out a lot, and it's evident how much they care for him. Then, tonight is another suprise party for Gladys. More eating...mmm, this is why I'm getting fat, I guess. :)

So, these have been crazy and fun days that I wish I could repeat tomorrow, but back to the real world of beans and eggs!! hahaha. I like it though. Hopefully this week will be productive. In the meantime, Happy Birthday to all of the August Peeps!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!! Hahahaha...that´s ´right...I´m now a whopping 27 years old. It´s hard to believe, I know. :) Anyway, I´d just like to take this time to thank God and my family and friends for making these years fun, adventurous, valuable, and beautiful. I´m truly blessed, and I thank God for allowing me to know so much beauty in my 27 years. Also, to show me sadness and misery so that I can truly appreciate His blessings.

In addition to another year of vida, Ramfis and I just had our 1 year of being a couple. We went to a fair and had a nice dinner...it was fun, and I can´t believe it´s been a year already!! Then again, it seems like longer. I´m truly blessed to have him in my life as well...not only as a super fun partner in crime (hahaha) j/k, but as an example of how I´d like to be. In this life, we cross paths with many people, and some truly make an impact and are worth getting to know. I´m thankful that I´ve trapped the heart of one of those people.

Disgusting how blessed I am!!! ;)

So, I just got back from an amazing trip to Antigua, Guatemala. It´s soooo beautiful there! And it surprised me how distinct it is from El Salvador, just 4 hours away. An invisible line draws a great cultural difference. For instance, in Guatemala they still have tons of native dialects and languages. I was fortunate enough to overhear several indigenous speaking in their own tongue, and it fascinated me! In addition, they still wear their typical dress (even the young people). They aren´t ashamed of their heritage, their culture, or their past. There are so many colors in every corner, proudly boasting their ability in the arts. I´m not sad to be in El Salvador, but it just saddens me that they don´t have the same. The history of the country has created a country ashamed of its own people, own color, and own culture. They are "igualados" for the most part, trying to be "American" instead of "Salvadoran". However, part of it isn´t their own fault. Masacres and wars and mistreatment of the natives left for little to tell the story, or teach their way of life and lingo. There are still parts in Santa Ana that have salvaged some heritage, but it just hit me hard on my trip the scarcity of culture in this Latin American country. To some, this is the most developed country because it´s model is the USA, 100%. However, I don´t think true development is denying your past and identity. Not much they can do now, except tell their story. Hopefully soon the heroes of the nation will be those that gave their lives, not those who took them.

Well, that was way too much information!! But, anyway, the trip was fantastic! I got to eat cookies, Thai food, drink really good lattes and wine, see art, etc. It´s a great place to visit...you should go. And, while you´re there, hop on over to see me and beautiful ES as well!!! xoxoxo Until next time!!

Happy 4th of July!! I do feel blessed to be from the U.S., and yet feel a bit bad because it wasn´t my choice to be wealthy, nor to have freedom to worship, nor to have a good house, plenty to eat, cars, a fabulous family, technology, clean water, education, dreams, freedom to travel all over the world without someone telling me no...you can´t come in. So many suffer in this world, and we´re unaware because we are so blessed with who is around us and the luxuries we see as the normal way of life. God Bless America, and God Bless the World...may we be more generous and look beyond ourselves to do as Abraham was commanded to do...Bless as you are Blessed!!

O.K., so now to more of a what´s been going on blog...My parents and Logan just left a couple of days ago, and we passed a marvelous 12 days together!! It was so much fun, and so great to see them. They did really well "roughing it" for 4 days in my village, even with bats flying and scorpions on the walls!! I was proud of how they reacted, even though my mom cacooned herself in a hammock. Poor things...they didn´t get much sleep for those 4 days!! They had new adventures, though! Logan was so cute because he was really good with the kids, and all of them were teaching him how to hit on girls in Spanish. It was hilarious! What was even funnier is that he was quite the little Romeo...catching all of the girls´eyes, and throwing his own comments and flirty glances as well. My little bubba´s growing up!!! : ( Then, we went travelling through the west side of the country. We saw volcanoes, lakes, oceans, coral reefs, fish, malls, hotels, cows (ask my mom about that one...she´s awwwed by all of the cows on the roads), landscape views, lightning storms, sunrises, food fairs, dolphins, tortoises, live music, etc. It was a blast, and it was sad to see them go. They met Ramfis and he met them for the first time, and thankfully, they all liked each other a lot! It all felt really comftorable for me and I was relieved that everything went so smoothly. My parents gave their blessing and "persmission" or consent for us to continue dating. It was sweet because he asked them for that and it was this big beautiful translated conversation about our relationship, the challenges and the things working in our favor, etc. The parental units appreciated the respectfulness, and all is well.

Poor Jen got robbed, tricked by a school, and really really sick, so she went home. I feel so bad that her experience was much less than desirable, but hopefully something good will come out of the bad. I already miss her and my family, though. So, pray for her recooperation. And please pray for my patience and strength. I don´t want to go back to my canton right now, so emotionally I´m a bit messed up.

A big shout out and thank you to Mrs. Tammy Perkins, the Porters, Mrs. Sherri Worley, Mrs. Jackie Pentecost, Mee Maw, and Nanny and Grandaddy for all of the goodies that you sent. I was and am much appreciative!!! Love you and thanks again! XOXOXO

It´s been a while!! It´s rainy season here, although the supposed strong hurricane made not even a dent where I live. We didn´t even have strong winds, praise God!! Just rain. I love the rain, because with it comes a nice cool temperature...a welcome change to the stealthing heat. Also, it brings my family!!! That´s right...just 2 weeks left, and my mom, my dad, and Logan will be here in The Savior to brighten my days!! Also, my friend Jen comes again next week!! She´ll be studying here for a month, so I´ll have a best friend here somewhat close to me...so cool, right??? Other new news is that I now have a puppy. He´s black and cute, but I´m not really a dog person. So, I´m learning. I like him cuz he´s cute, but I just don´t like when he jumps up on me. He´s being spoiled because I bathe him every week, and he gets real dog food. The older dogs are jealous, I think, and sometimes they´re snobby to him. But, poco a poco they´re accepting him. (You can see pics of him to the right of this page in My Pics.)


Work´s going well, I think. I´m giving classes twice a week...one in English and the other in Life Skills (sexual education, goal making, etc.). I enjoy those classes. Then, our school´s getting 2 computers next month, and hopefully a new roof due to some soliciting. We have our first Health Committee formed, and they´re still in training right now, but we´ll be starting a Trash Campaign soon. Hopefully all will go well.

Personally, I miss home a lot, but also enjoy my one day to the pueblo every week. I miss my church, but this weekend I´m going to the Capitol, so hopefully Ramfis and I will get to go.
My haír´s gotten so long! I want to put blond highlights in it again, so maybe in a couple of months I´ll do that. If plane tickets aren´t too too bad, I might even go home in October. We´ll see. But, basically everything´s going well. It´s just hard sometimes expecting the people around me to treat me like my family and friends treat me back home, and expecting my norm to be their norm. It doesn´t work that way, and there truly is a cultural difference. It´s taken a year for me to realize how drastic that difference is, but it´s a learning experience, right? Thankfully, I have Ramfis and I have my volunteer friends. Also, my peeps that keep in touch from the US. Thanks!! Well, take care, and until next time!!

It´s been a lovely and crazy April here in El Salvador!! Jen came...fabulous!! I had mid-service medicals....not so fabulous, but time with Ramfis!!! And Alison came....fabulous!!! So, basically, I haven´t been much in my site; although great things have happened. We had a Professional Exposicion that was a large success at the school with 7th, 8th, and 9th grades; yesterday we had our first tranining\meeting with the very new Health Committee; and started up English classes again. So, I´ve been busy, and I´ve been happy. Having friends come and see and experience my life is so rewarding and refreshing. It´s nice for people to understand, you know? Also, it was great that they got to meet Ramfis, and vice versa. He was such a great host, and thankfully he hit it off with the girls (no big surprise).

I've realized a sad yet profound reality about my present situation. I've become more selfish. It's true. The other day I was thinking about everything, and I realized that although I came to El Salvador with the mentality to serve and give of myself, it has caused a backlash of self absorption. Let me explain....Since my comforts have been taken away, everytime I go to the capitol, I'm thinking about what I can eat, where I can go, etc. I want to buy my $5 hamburger meal, or whatever, so I end up spending more money. Then, sometimes I want to buy a shirt or something, yet I barely recognize the homeless in my bee-line to the shopping centers. Every now and then, I give my quarter. But a quarter?? I seriously think to myself, "I can't give more than that cuz I need to save to buy ice cream later." Hello!! I've become crazy!! Also, my Salvadoran family I know would appreciate me buying them something every now and then, but I'm just too selfish to spend my money that way after buying groceries for us. Not only financially, but just with thoughts in general, I've become very me-focused. I don't like it, and I find it ironic because all of you at home are singing my praises (which you shouldn't by the way) for being selfless and sacrificing for others and joining the Peace Corps because I think of others before myself. (I'm just saying things I've heard) But, I feel the opposite!!! So, please pray for me and I'll be praying for a change as well. However, that's also become a trend; to pray to God all about me and what concerns me and me making wise decisions and me being filled with the Spirit, and me me me!!!

Well, thanks for letting me confess online for all to see. Have a blessed day.

p.s. Last week was Fabulous!! Jen came and visited. We had so much fun....jumping waterfalls, making records by the way, for being the first women to jump!!, swimming in the river, seeing street art for Semana Santa, chasing chickens, picking mangoes, eating jocotes, riding on buses, seeing beauty everywhere, and not sleeping from talking so much!! It was just what I needed....great!! Look at the pics on my kodak site!!

I´VE BEEN TAGGED!!

Here are the rules.
(1) Link to the person that tagged you.
(2) Post the rules on your blog.
(3) Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.
(4) Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs.
(5) Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.

ok, here are the six quirky things about myself...hmmmmmm.

1. I like to pop zits

2. I am constantly counting numbers or spelling letters with my hands, or feet, or butt, or something. Basically, I´m never completely still.

3. In addition, sometimes when I´m thinking, I´m typing the words in my mind, or even worst...sometimes texting!!!

4. I get scared to go to bed if I´m the only one in the house.

5. If I do one thing with my right hand\foot, I have to do it with my left. For instance, move a toe or something.

6. I always say I´m giving up sodas and coffee, but I never do. It´s bad, I know.

Now I tag Casey, Heather, Allison, Jenny, Aunt Debbie, Ramfis. Can´t wait to hear your quirks!!!!

2.