Today I gave my landlords and Hermida's Mom a ride to church. It was like running an obstacle course getting down the mountain this morning. There weren't many cars on the roads, but those who were drove like crazy people. Hermida was anxious although I tried to drive slowly and safely.
At church I sat with David, one of Ana's sons. Ana has been cooking since Marlin was in the hospital. She's a great cook and a nice person to have around. She has a tranquil presence. I like her and her kids. David has taken a special liking to me. He is about 10 yrs old and sweet as can be. Marlin sat on the other side of me. Jairo spoke about good, good friends who love you no matter what. I grabbed Marlin's knee and she reached over and hugged me. Marlin is my good friend who loves me :)
Later in the service she poked me and pointed at her belly. I could see the baby moving! It was cool. She is feeling better and excited about her pregnancy. After church I had enchiladas with Raquel and her husband Edward. The men were selling them as a fund raiser for their conference next weekend. Raquel and I sat and talked until there were only a couple people left at the church.
I joined a group for women who are going to read a book together. I'm not sure if I'll read it in Spanish or in English. I think both. I also am signing up for a pre-discipleship which I need to complete in order to join a small group. I am excited to finally be in a small group.
It sounds like the leadership have some great ideas for the year to come. We are going to have a group who commit to reading through the bible together throughout the year. I want to be a part of that group. They are also starting a library at the church with books that people have already read and donate. It will have a "librarian" who can help people choose the books they need. Cool! Jairo talked to me about helping my friend Raquel lead The Ester Project. I have always wanted to do that. It is a group for girls between 10 and 13 years old which teaches values, self esteem and the bible. The Ester Project is in its 6th year at my church and is losing steam. We are hoping to breathe a little life into it. I am only hesitant because that means I have to be at the church 7 days/week. I don't want to commit to that. I need one day to do my laundry and get personal things done. So I need to talk to Ethel about what she thinks.
On my way home from church the red party, whoever they are, were blocking the roads and waving their flags. I was a little nervous. There was a positive energy, but these gatherings have the potential to turn violent. I made it through the first part of the crowd by following a car that was waving red flags of their own. The crowds parted for them. Then I got stuck behind buses blocking the highway with people flying flags out the window. Finally I rolled down my drivers window and looked people in the eye trying to get into the left lane. Cars kept driving by and not letting me in. I started getting a little nervous. Probably they wanted to get out of there too. Then I noticed a truck that had already passed waving for me to come up and they would let me in. The passenger kept motioning for me to go in front of them. As I passed I told him "Gracias!" The man, who appeared to be in his mid 60's, said something in response. I didn't catch what he said, but it was something nice. I was grateful to get out of there and I think he knew it.
As I got close to my house I passed Jairo coming the other direction. I stuck my arm out the window and waved. He waved back. I am so grateful to him for driving me everywhere for over a year, but it sure is nice to have some independence and do my own thing now. Even if it does get a little scary sometimes.
