¡Vámonos! a Peru

So less than 24 hours before my 4 month trip to Puerto Maldonado, Peru, and I am happy to say that I am pretty much ready to go... I think that has a lot to do with my ENFJ personality (I'm sure you're going to be hearing a lot about that in the coming blogs). I have mixed emotions... I'm nervous (about going to a new culture, not knowing the language well), and I am excited ( for the things God is going to show me and how much I'm going to growth and learn form this experience).

I find God magnificent at pushing me completely out of my comfort zone (not more than I can handle though ;) )!! The challenge that comes when we are out of our comfort zone the bible says develops perseverance, character and hope (Romans 5:3-5). The one piece of comfort that I thought was going to be there when I arrived was an American couple who has lived there for a year. Unfortunately (but good on their part) they will be on furlough for the next 6 months, after living in Peru for 10 years... so apparently I have a lot more character to build hahaha! My biggest fear is being left at the airport... I know I know... Raquelita... NOT the worst thing that could happen! But I figure if I get past that I handle anything :)

My flight leaves at 5:35 PM and I arrive in Lima, Peru at 12:25AM... and then my connecting flight to Cusco and then on to Puerto Maldonado is either at 5:35 or 9:10. The time is still up in the air.

A lot of people have asked what I will be doing when I am there. My main purpose to to love upon and build relationships with the girls in the Refuge (see iprojects.ca for more information). I will also be teaching English to the missionary couple (Patti and Joel) who run the home, as well as helping Patti out a lot with regular tasks required to run the home on a daily basis. Other than that... I am hoping to learn to really hear form God and follow His direction on what he would like me to do while I am down there.

That is all for now. More to come!! My jungle adventures await! Keep checking back... I'll have pictures and crazy stories I'm sure!

Luv and hugs
Raquelita

PS... Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! to all my fantabulous friends, family, and adopted family for all the support and encouragement I have received in regards to this trip. I would not be going where I am going nor would I be the person I am without you all (you know who you are :) ).