Catch up :)

Well, I thought I would finally sit down and update part of this blog when things slowed down, after the memorial, after the C.O. visit, after the circuit assembly.....But things just keep moving along quite rapidly, and happily so :) Lots of good things have been going on and I wish I could write it chronologically or in some outlined manner, but my brain just doesn't work that way....so here goes...Our C.O. visit was great, Larry and Provi Klein, the second set of english C.O.'s ever in Mexico (now there are more, 5 circuits). They were energetic and encouraging, so nice having them. Brother Klein gave us helpful suggestions to improve the quality of our ministry like MAF (make a friend), BIG (Before I go), OIF--sounds yiddish :) but its the "Oh I forgot" tactic, and there were many others. They have a very self-sacrificing spirit and love for the ministry, it was nice to get to know them a little better this time around. As for our circuit assembly, it was in Merida in the the Yucatan. That means it was a looong ways away from San Cris (16 hours). We hired a van that fit 14 of us. And although the trip itself wasn't first class, the company was. Even with swollen feet, sweaty bodies, cramped legs, and a touch of nausea our group was in good spirits laughing and singing (we all sang the kingdom melodies were gonna use at the assembly). Also, Summer stepped up to the plate and did an impromptu interview for our pioneer meeting. I believe there were close to 150 present at the meeting, so that was encouraging. Also, a funny story...after the meeting I began talking to a sister serving in Cozumel who was also interviewed with Summer. During her interview she said that while in the states she did lighthouse work, 8-10 hours. So I asked her where she originally was from, Arkansas she told me. Then I said "So they have lighthouses in Arkansas?" thinking how strange that was. She then graciously said, "No dear, I do light house work, around the house." Needless to say, the conversation ended shortly thereafter :) No, she was very nice about my blonde moment :) As for the assembly, it was incredible, sooo encouraging. There was a newly baptized sister initially found in informal witnessing in Playa del Carmen, from Britain and about in her 60s. Its so nice to see new ones added to Jehovah's organization. Makes us want to work harder than before, seeing each person we call on or study with as our potential brother or sister. One experience I found especially encouraging was a married couple serving in Playa del Carmen who have been serving here in Mexico close to 10 years. They spoke of certain difficulties like not being able to find sufficient work or being away from family. The brother then said that while there were many tears shed during those especially difficult times that Jehovah always gave them a reason to be joyful and they never went without a meal during those times. It was nice to see that perspective, especially when you may feel discouraged. Well, thats just a quick, real quick, overview....