Wednesday 12 October 2011
Bye Chile!
Ready to board flight no. 9 for the trip. We think it's a bit delayed so if you are making the trip to the airport on Friday it might be worth checking on the Sydney Airport website. Our flight number is LA801. Muchos amor x
On our way back.
Well after a great last day in Santiago we are about to board the buses to the Airport for the long trip home. Sadly we said goodbye to Ben Merrick this morning as he headed on his adventure into Europe. After some teary goodbyes went into the city and caught a cable car up one of the mountains that surrounds the city of Santiago. The views were wonderful. After a picnic lunch and a few photos we headed back down the mountain and back on the subway (a bit of a favourtie method of transport for us in South America by now) to pick up supplies from the Hiper Lida (think Kmart and Woolies but on steroids and joined into one) and then to pack.
Our flight leaves a little after 10:00pm here so hopefully that will mean lots of sleep and if not there are always the movies.
Thank you so much to everyone at home who has looked at our blog. We hope it has helped you feel in touch with what we were doing and we hope you have been able to pray intelligently after the requests and stories we have placed here.
One last prayer request is for safe travel and we will see you all bright and early on Friday morning. Don't be late to pick us up and bring big big signs cause that will make us feel like celebrities.
Lots of love
All of us on the South America Mission Team
Our flight leaves a little after 10:00pm here so hopefully that will mean lots of sleep and if not there are always the movies.
Thank you so much to everyone at home who has looked at our blog. We hope it has helped you feel in touch with what we were doing and we hope you have been able to pray intelligently after the requests and stories we have placed here.
One last prayer request is for safe travel and we will see you all bright and early on Friday morning. Don't be late to pick us up and bring big big signs cause that will make us feel like celebrities.
Lots of love
All of us on the South America Mission Team
Tuesday 11 October 2011
Beach Day!!!
We had to get up earlier than most of us would have liked to catch a 1.5 hour bus trip to Vina Del Mar to spend the day at the beach. The bus had the most amazing reclining seats and we all soon fell asleep to catch-up on the hours of sleep we had missed. It was like sleeping on a cloud.
Once we arrived at Vina Del Mar we started to walk in search of the beach. After only a few minues two dogs joined our group and accompanied us to McDonalds. We ate our incredibly cheap food while watching the sky because it was over-cast, windy and only 16'c. We were hoping for slightly better weather for our beach day.
We reluctantly left McDonalds and soon found ourselves swarmed with many new dog friends who were hoping to join our clearly dominent pack. The dogs became too much when we stopped for churros at the beach side stand. After eatring our churros we split up to try and loose the dogs. It worked mostly, accept a handful of our group ended up stuck on a ledge overhanging craggy rocks and the raging ocean, with a persistent doggy friend. The rest of us took lots of photos.
We had a debreif session then we tried to baptise me (Caitlin) but apparently it only counts as 3/4 because my hair didnt get completly wet, but it was too cold to go in completly and I was more or less dropped onto the soggy sand. It was very funny. And super spiritual. We videoed it:D This lead to running through Vina Del Mar to look for somewhere to change into dry clothing because it was still only 16'c. The locals thought we were crazy and we missed the bus home, but it's all G.
To celebrate our last night in South America we went to a restaurant where we got buckets of meat. It was good. There was half a chicken on top as 8 steaks on top of heaps of sausages and we ordered 6. It was very good.
We are all sad mission is coming to an end, but excited to go back home :)
Caitlin xxx
Once we arrived at Vina Del Mar we started to walk in search of the beach. After only a few minues two dogs joined our group and accompanied us to McDonalds. We ate our incredibly cheap food while watching the sky because it was over-cast, windy and only 16'c. We were hoping for slightly better weather for our beach day.
We reluctantly left McDonalds and soon found ourselves swarmed with many new dog friends who were hoping to join our clearly dominent pack. The dogs became too much when we stopped for churros at the beach side stand. After eatring our churros we split up to try and loose the dogs. It worked mostly, accept a handful of our group ended up stuck on a ledge overhanging craggy rocks and the raging ocean, with a persistent doggy friend. The rest of us took lots of photos.
We had a debreif session then we tried to baptise me (Caitlin) but apparently it only counts as 3/4 because my hair didnt get completly wet, but it was too cold to go in completly and I was more or less dropped onto the soggy sand. It was very funny. And super spiritual. We videoed it:D This lead to running through Vina Del Mar to look for somewhere to change into dry clothing because it was still only 16'c. The locals thought we were crazy and we missed the bus home, but it's all G.
To celebrate our last night in South America we went to a restaurant where we got buckets of meat. It was good. There was half a chicken on top as 8 steaks on top of heaps of sausages and we ordered 6. It was very good.
We are all sad mission is coming to an end, but excited to go back home :)
Caitlin xxx
Monday 10 October 2011
Salvation Army School in Pudahuel
Today we started with a great breakfast (made by the salvation army college students) which included juice, yummy bread, bacon and eggs and with this we created a bacon and egg roll! Then we caught the subway from Ecuador station to Pudahuel, then had an interesting car ride to the Salvation Army School. When we got there we were introduced, shown around the school and then got straight into work. The work involved painting multiple walls in a creamy colour, doors in bright blue and window sills in white. They served us lunch which was a delicious spaghetti bologanaise. After filling up we finished the second coat and were on our way back home. Today was a great day of service and we all really enjoyed ourselves. We have made a new relationship in which we can build on in the future. Meg, Jess, Corrine and Meg took a detour with Bill to Lider (kinda like a wall mart) and found "Peanut Buttercups" which by the way are amazing!!! The rest of the team took the subway back home. It was a tiring day and we all are ready to come home and see our familys but dont want to leave at the same time. Debreiefing was filled with worship, testimonys from Sarah and Darryl and sharing expirences of the past 16 days. The days are flying by, only one day left and the next day we will be flying home.
From Si and Mi :)
(aka sarah and meg)
From Si and Mi :)
(aka sarah and meg)
Sunday 9 October 2011
Guinea Pig Claws and Dancing Bears
Sorry about the lack of posting over the last few days. It's been pretty hectic over the last 3 days and it's been hard to find the time/Internet connection to be able to post. We've safely arrived in Chile and everyone is loving the increased amount of Oxygen back here on sea level.
October the 7th
This was our last day in Cusco. Firstly, and most importantly, PERU WON THE SOCCER! We also went out to dinner and many of us had the privilege to try ridiculously small portions of Guinea Pig. However our day was primarily spent learning everything there is to know about the ancient Incas and the Spanish colonists. We went to Saqsaywaman, Qorinkancha, a Cathedral, a Monastery and several Incan temples/ruins.
Sadly the day was filled with Cusco's crazily changing weather which mostly consisted of rain. However we were well equipped with colourful disposable plastic ponchos (which made us look awesome). As excellent as our tour guide was I think that most of us did struggle to listen to him for the entire day and were pretty happy to have the afternoon off to do some shopping and buy presents for everyone at home.
As mentioned above we went out for the night to try the local delicacies and to watch Peru smash Paraguay 2-0 from the comfort of a local restaurant. Darry and I had a great time cheering for Peru in our newly bought soccer jerseys.
October the 9th
The 9th was made up of a surprise (for us) parade in Cusco, flying from Cusco to Lima and from Lima to Santiago. The parade was pretty amazing, we found out it was an annual parade we were just lucky enough to experience. James and the girls also had a lot of fun on the plane using the finger puppets they bought in Cusco to order drinks and dancing to the in-flight music.
We arrived fairly late in Santiago and the Salvation Army people we are staying with, were there with several buses waiting to take us to our new home for the next week.
We are staying here in the Salvation Army training base which has been awesome. Everyone is so friendly and keen to help us however they can.
October the 10th (Today!)
As it was Sunday today we went to the Salvation Army church to run their Sunday school. Once we arrived there we found out that they had also planned on one of our team members giving their testimony to the main congregation. Susanna stepped up to the plate and with the help of a translator and I was told she did a fantastic job.
Sunday school also went really well with all the kids being really excited about having Australians come to visit them and we all had a great time singing and dancing, while barely understanding anything they were talking about. Fortunately there is a couple from America working with the Salvation Army here who have been able to translate for us and have been keen to show us around the local area. They have been so nice to us showing us around and teaching us about the unique culture here in Santiago.
Everyone is doing really well health wise and seem to be having a great time. Sorry again that's it's been a while since the last post and hopefully you'll hear from us again tomorrow!
Ben
Quotes
"Pigs are red"
"I love transport"
"Aren't typhoid and yellow fever the same thing?"
"Is that a fire hose?"
"I used to be one of those fish with legs... but now I'm at the furry rat stage of christian evolution"
For parents and friends, we'd love it if you'd like to guess who made each quote in the comments
October the 7th
This was our last day in Cusco. Firstly, and most importantly, PERU WON THE SOCCER! We also went out to dinner and many of us had the privilege to try ridiculously small portions of Guinea Pig. However our day was primarily spent learning everything there is to know about the ancient Incas and the Spanish colonists. We went to Saqsaywaman, Qorinkancha, a Cathedral, a Monastery and several Incan temples/ruins.
Sadly the day was filled with Cusco's crazily changing weather which mostly consisted of rain. However we were well equipped with colourful disposable plastic ponchos (which made us look awesome). As excellent as our tour guide was I think that most of us did struggle to listen to him for the entire day and were pretty happy to have the afternoon off to do some shopping and buy presents for everyone at home.
As mentioned above we went out for the night to try the local delicacies and to watch Peru smash Paraguay 2-0 from the comfort of a local restaurant. Darry and I had a great time cheering for Peru in our newly bought soccer jerseys.
October the 9th
The 9th was made up of a surprise (for us) parade in Cusco, flying from Cusco to Lima and from Lima to Santiago. The parade was pretty amazing, we found out it was an annual parade we were just lucky enough to experience. James and the girls also had a lot of fun on the plane using the finger puppets they bought in Cusco to order drinks and dancing to the in-flight music.
We arrived fairly late in Santiago and the Salvation Army people we are staying with, were there with several buses waiting to take us to our new home for the next week.
We are staying here in the Salvation Army training base which has been awesome. Everyone is so friendly and keen to help us however they can.
October the 10th (Today!)
As it was Sunday today we went to the Salvation Army church to run their Sunday school. Once we arrived there we found out that they had also planned on one of our team members giving their testimony to the main congregation. Susanna stepped up to the plate and with the help of a translator and I was told she did a fantastic job.
Sunday school also went really well with all the kids being really excited about having Australians come to visit them and we all had a great time singing and dancing, while barely understanding anything they were talking about. Fortunately there is a couple from America working with the Salvation Army here who have been able to translate for us and have been keen to show us around the local area. They have been so nice to us showing us around and teaching us about the unique culture here in Santiago.
Everyone is doing really well health wise and seem to be having a great time. Sorry again that's it's been a while since the last post and hopefully you'll hear from us again tomorrow!
Ben
Quotes
"Pigs are red"
"I love transport"
"Aren't typhoid and yellow fever the same thing?"
"Is that a fire hose?"
"I used to be one of those fish with legs... but now I'm at the furry rat stage of christian evolution"
For parents and friends, we'd love it if you'd like to guess who made each quote in the comments
Thursday 6 October 2011
And the Adventure Continues
So, today saw us up bright and early for the start of our Machu Picchu adventure, and although 6:30am may not have been when most of us would have liked to be up, there was a tangible excitement among the group in anticipation for the days activities.
7:30am saw us at the train station at Poroy, from which we embarked upon a three hour train ride to the town of Machu Picchu (or Aguas Calientes). Thus ensued much ´oohing´and ´aahing´as we whistled past gloriously highy mountain ranges and saw the heart of Peru´s agricultural centre, with many fields filled with corn crops. Streams turned into rivers as the landscape changed into deep valleys and ravines, in which we caught our first glimpses of Incan ruins struin over a few hillsides. As well as enjoying the scenery, many energetic games of cards and Uno were played to while away the time, often ending in playful banter and the slapping of tables =)
Due to a little hold up on the train, we arrived at the town of Machu Picchu around 12:30, and were treated to a lovely buffet lunch at Totos. The boys seemed very excited about this, but they were not the only ones to tuck in heartly when we saw the spread that was provided for us. Among salads, bread and vegetables many of us tried Alpaca meat (some unknowingly ;-) ) and were also treated to traditional music by a band playing such hits as La Bamba and There´s only one Che Guvera on the pan pipes and guitars.
After this we took the short bus trip up to Machu Picchu, by which time we were eagerly anticipating the adventure we were about to take, and also ardently praying that the rain would stop. Which it did, praise the Lord.
Getting to Machu Picchu and seeing it for the first time was surreal. Something that so many of us have seen in photos and posters was there, living and breathing before us. We had a very enthusiastic tour guide, who filled us in on all the theories, facts and fantasies about this ancient ruin. As we saw temples, gates, aqueducts, fountains, houses and more, many of us were struck by the precision, knowledge and understanding that this ancient civilization had, down to every 36 sided, perfectly fitting, block of stone. The way the sunlight hit the mountains around the site, the way the verdent green almost shone from the centre of the town, the way the clouds floated lazily through the valley was simply the most amazing sight to behold. If a soul does not sing at such wonders of creation and creativity, I´m not sure for what else it would.
The tour ended with some rather unobliging, camera shy, llamas, who seemed to do everything in their power, including jumping up stone stair cases, to elude our camera ready grasps. Many team photos later, we left for the long trek back to Cusco, which once again contained many heated games of cards and Uno, though less ´oohing´and ´aahing´ due to, well, the night.
Tomorrow we set out to conquer the city one tourist site at a time, shall inform you all of how that goes. Once again, thank you for your constant prayers and thoughts, they mean the world to us.
Love and blessings,
South American PHCS mission team
xo
7:30am saw us at the train station at Poroy, from which we embarked upon a three hour train ride to the town of Machu Picchu (or Aguas Calientes). Thus ensued much ´oohing´and ´aahing´as we whistled past gloriously highy mountain ranges and saw the heart of Peru´s agricultural centre, with many fields filled with corn crops. Streams turned into rivers as the landscape changed into deep valleys and ravines, in which we caught our first glimpses of Incan ruins struin over a few hillsides. As well as enjoying the scenery, many energetic games of cards and Uno were played to while away the time, often ending in playful banter and the slapping of tables =)
Due to a little hold up on the train, we arrived at the town of Machu Picchu around 12:30, and were treated to a lovely buffet lunch at Totos. The boys seemed very excited about this, but they were not the only ones to tuck in heartly when we saw the spread that was provided for us. Among salads, bread and vegetables many of us tried Alpaca meat (some unknowingly ;-) ) and were also treated to traditional music by a band playing such hits as La Bamba and There´s only one Che Guvera on the pan pipes and guitars.
After this we took the short bus trip up to Machu Picchu, by which time we were eagerly anticipating the adventure we were about to take, and also ardently praying that the rain would stop. Which it did, praise the Lord.
Getting to Machu Picchu and seeing it for the first time was surreal. Something that so many of us have seen in photos and posters was there, living and breathing before us. We had a very enthusiastic tour guide, who filled us in on all the theories, facts and fantasies about this ancient ruin. As we saw temples, gates, aqueducts, fountains, houses and more, many of us were struck by the precision, knowledge and understanding that this ancient civilization had, down to every 36 sided, perfectly fitting, block of stone. The way the sunlight hit the mountains around the site, the way the verdent green almost shone from the centre of the town, the way the clouds floated lazily through the valley was simply the most amazing sight to behold. If a soul does not sing at such wonders of creation and creativity, I´m not sure for what else it would.
The tour ended with some rather unobliging, camera shy, llamas, who seemed to do everything in their power, including jumping up stone stair cases, to elude our camera ready grasps. Many team photos later, we left for the long trek back to Cusco, which once again contained many heated games of cards and Uno, though less ´oohing´and ´aahing´ due to, well, the night.
Tomorrow we set out to conquer the city one tourist site at a time, shall inform you all of how that goes. Once again, thank you for your constant prayers and thoughts, they mean the world to us.
Love and blessings,
South American PHCS mission team
xo
Wednesday 5 October 2011
Elim Orphanage, Cusco Day 3
In typical South American fashion, Jeremy arrived an hour later than scheduled to accompany us on our second day spent at Elim Orphanage. Today we had the priviledge of meeting some of the orphans at Elim, after yesterday hearing about how many of them came to be orphans and the many wonderful ways that Jeremy and his mum aim to raise them with core Christian values. So it was great to have that extra understanding whilst getting to know them.
It was a productive day, as the boys worked up a sweat whilst cleaning the bathrooms as well as the biggest mix master known to man, which required at least 3 guys to lift. Meanwhile the girls swept up the dust in several rooms. The amount of dust in the air wasn´t great for those already suffering from a lack of oxygen due to the altitude, and it was predicted that tissues may be an interesting colour tonight.
After a morning spent hard at work, we were rewarded with a lunch prepared by the orphanage. The fried cauliflower in the main meal was well received by all, however the jelly for desert not so much, being more of a liquid consistency. It became a challenge that was accepted by some, as Susanna and Sarah battled it out to see who could eat the most, Josh was egged on by the kids who were cheering ´´come on George!´´ (they seemed to struggle to pronounce his name properly) and in Darryl´s words, ´´took one for the team´´ and ate both his and Meg Gough´s. Nevertheless, we were still greatly appreciative of the thought and effort that the cooks put in.
Following lunch we sayed our goodbyes and then navigated our way back home. Our afternoon adventure entailed a trip to the artisan markets, which included our very exciting first Peruvian llama sighting while travelling along the cobbled streets. The theme of llamas seemed to be recurring as many of the boys bought their second llama beanie at the markets, happy to settle for the price that they were offered, while the girls bargained for the lowest price possible on anything that caught their attention. Somewhere along the way Susanna, being an attraction of attention in South America, was also offered a ´´llama´´ to hold by a random lady in the streets. The ´´llama´´ got a little comfortable and ended up relieving itself by emptying its bladder on her. Turns out the llama was actually a lamb and the stench that was left on Susanna´s sleeve was not at all worth the experience.
Now bed time is nearing as an early night will be necessary in preparation for a big day tomorrow - Machu Pichu!
Adios!
Andrea
It was a productive day, as the boys worked up a sweat whilst cleaning the bathrooms as well as the biggest mix master known to man, which required at least 3 guys to lift. Meanwhile the girls swept up the dust in several rooms. The amount of dust in the air wasn´t great for those already suffering from a lack of oxygen due to the altitude, and it was predicted that tissues may be an interesting colour tonight.
After a morning spent hard at work, we were rewarded with a lunch prepared by the orphanage. The fried cauliflower in the main meal was well received by all, however the jelly for desert not so much, being more of a liquid consistency. It became a challenge that was accepted by some, as Susanna and Sarah battled it out to see who could eat the most, Josh was egged on by the kids who were cheering ´´come on George!´´ (they seemed to struggle to pronounce his name properly) and in Darryl´s words, ´´took one for the team´´ and ate both his and Meg Gough´s. Nevertheless, we were still greatly appreciative of the thought and effort that the cooks put in.
Following lunch we sayed our goodbyes and then navigated our way back home. Our afternoon adventure entailed a trip to the artisan markets, which included our very exciting first Peruvian llama sighting while travelling along the cobbled streets. The theme of llamas seemed to be recurring as many of the boys bought their second llama beanie at the markets, happy to settle for the price that they were offered, while the girls bargained for the lowest price possible on anything that caught their attention. Somewhere along the way Susanna, being an attraction of attention in South America, was also offered a ´´llama´´ to hold by a random lady in the streets. The ´´llama´´ got a little comfortable and ended up relieving itself by emptying its bladder on her. Turns out the llama was actually a lamb and the stench that was left on Susanna´s sleeve was not at all worth the experience.
Now bed time is nearing as an early night will be necessary in preparation for a big day tomorrow - Machu Pichu!
Adios!
Andrea
Tuesday 4 October 2011
Alpacka Beanies and Altitude Pills; Cusco Day 2
Like the most of the team, yesterday´s post was affected by altitude sickness, which was why it was so short. The postitive of that is that you guys get a nice long one to read today! So, get comfy.
We left Buenos Aires at around 5 30 am, just in time to see the British backpackers we met the night before come home from ¨dinner.¨ We were all sad to leave our uber chill hostel and at the same time, pumped to see Peru. The two flights, Buenos Aires to Lima and Lima to Cusco, were full of drama. Ben Merrick got sick and resulted in Mr Gough dubbing it ¨the day of the brown mist.¨ Karma was obviously at work as Mr Gough also lost his bag on that same flight.
Fortunatly, the bag was found as soon as we mentioned that Simon would need money to replace some stuff and we moved on to Cusco. We had half the plane to ourselves, and the flight was short, and we were keen to see Cusco. The second we exited the airport we had the scene set for us. It was a beautiful sunny day,we were surrounded by mountains and a lady tried to sell us alpacka beanies. It was exactly what we expected.
Our bus dropped us off on a narrow cobble street and we entered Los Aticos Hotel from a side street. We put our bags into our rooms and headed straight to the roof to see the veiw. It was stunning. The valley was full of old style houses that staggered up the mountain side. On the peak of the mountain to the left was a statue of Jesus, and the words¨Viva el Peru¨ enscribed into the mountain on our right. They were very good first impressions.
Stages of Altitude Sickness
1. The Giggly Stage. Every one is smiling, laughing and telling the worst jokes possible, and people laughed anyway. Andrea is still in this stage.
2. The Dizzy Stage. As I was chopping tomatoes for the tacos we were having for dinner I suddenly felt really dizzy, and went to join the rest of the team semi passed out on my bed. Most of the team got a bit of this, but no real dramas. The Tacos were really good.
3. The Post Pills Stage. After taking the Altitude Pills we felt fine except for the weird side effects such as pins and needles in strange places and needing to go to the baños every half hour.
Day Two invloved Mr Gough being confused about the time difference and waking everyone up at 5 30 rather than 7 30. (Stage 4?) After breakfast we met up with Jeremy Cuba from Elim, a local orphange. We took a short yet intense taxi ride to the orphanage were we met the director of Elim, Jeremy`s Mum. We then moved some baking equipment to the new campus of the orphange we we got to see Jame`s problem solving skills and Darryl`s buff side. The girls picked up the orphan kids from school. The girls went to have lunch and go shopping as the guys went keep moving the furniture and then went to get lunch. After a lunch of burgers and Inca Kola, the guys went back to the hotel to play cards, and the girls returned later with every kind of alpacka wool item money could buy.
Peru so far has been amazing, everything we expected and more. We are looking forward to hanging out at Elim again tomorrow and especially Machu Piccu later this week. Everyone is feeling alright now, and looking forward to going to bed. Buenos Noches Amigos!
Josh
We left Buenos Aires at around 5 30 am, just in time to see the British backpackers we met the night before come home from ¨dinner.¨ We were all sad to leave our uber chill hostel and at the same time, pumped to see Peru. The two flights, Buenos Aires to Lima and Lima to Cusco, were full of drama. Ben Merrick got sick and resulted in Mr Gough dubbing it ¨the day of the brown mist.¨ Karma was obviously at work as Mr Gough also lost his bag on that same flight.
Fortunatly, the bag was found as soon as we mentioned that Simon would need money to replace some stuff and we moved on to Cusco. We had half the plane to ourselves, and the flight was short, and we were keen to see Cusco. The second we exited the airport we had the scene set for us. It was a beautiful sunny day,we were surrounded by mountains and a lady tried to sell us alpacka beanies. It was exactly what we expected.
Our bus dropped us off on a narrow cobble street and we entered Los Aticos Hotel from a side street. We put our bags into our rooms and headed straight to the roof to see the veiw. It was stunning. The valley was full of old style houses that staggered up the mountain side. On the peak of the mountain to the left was a statue of Jesus, and the words¨Viva el Peru¨ enscribed into the mountain on our right. They were very good first impressions.
Stages of Altitude Sickness
1. The Giggly Stage. Every one is smiling, laughing and telling the worst jokes possible, and people laughed anyway. Andrea is still in this stage.
2. The Dizzy Stage. As I was chopping tomatoes for the tacos we were having for dinner I suddenly felt really dizzy, and went to join the rest of the team semi passed out on my bed. Most of the team got a bit of this, but no real dramas. The Tacos were really good.
3. The Post Pills Stage. After taking the Altitude Pills we felt fine except for the weird side effects such as pins and needles in strange places and needing to go to the baños every half hour.
Day Two invloved Mr Gough being confused about the time difference and waking everyone up at 5 30 rather than 7 30. (Stage 4?) After breakfast we met up with Jeremy Cuba from Elim, a local orphange. We took a short yet intense taxi ride to the orphanage were we met the director of Elim, Jeremy`s Mum. We then moved some baking equipment to the new campus of the orphange we we got to see Jame`s problem solving skills and Darryl`s buff side. The girls picked up the orphan kids from school. The girls went to have lunch and go shopping as the guys went keep moving the furniture and then went to get lunch. After a lunch of burgers and Inca Kola, the guys went back to the hotel to play cards, and the girls returned later with every kind of alpacka wool item money could buy.
Peru so far has been amazing, everything we expected and more. We are looking forward to hanging out at Elim again tomorrow and especially Machu Piccu later this week. Everyone is feeling alright now, and looking forward to going to bed. Buenos Noches Amigos!
Josh
Monday 3 October 2011
Peru!
After a long day traveling we have arrived safely in Peru. A few people are a bit under the weather so prayers for health would be most appreciated :)
Sunday 2 October 2011
St Andrews Church
Today was a laid back day as it was more relaxed. We woke at eight, dressed conservatively, had breakfast and headed off to take the subway to Retiro. From there we took a train to Belgrano, met up with Kate and Gerson, and walked the last few blocks to St Andrews Presbyterian Church. The hour long service was held in a beautiful old church and was entirely in Spanish.
The service was lovely and we enjoyed singing along to the song books, praising God in a differant language and being handed out flowers by children to welcome in Spring. During the sermon one elderly man kindly came to translate it for us.
After church we went to a Peruvian restruant and all had an amazing and very filling lunch of chicken, chips and salad.
Once we finished lunch we sat down in the sun with Kate and most of us tried Mate - a traditional South American drink which is a drunk out of a metal straw and a cup filled with herbs and boiling water that is passed around the group. It was definatly an interesting experience, some didnt like it and some did, especially Ben who later bought his own special cup from the markets which we spent a little time shopping after farewelling Kate.
The day was altogether a lovely day sharing time together and trying new experiances - especially in regards to the Spanish worship and Mate. It came to a perfect end with devotions and a wonderful dinner cooked by Caitlin. We have all really loved our time in Argentina but we are excited to experiance Peru. :)
xxxxxx Susanna
The service was lovely and we enjoyed singing along to the song books, praising God in a differant language and being handed out flowers by children to welcome in Spring. During the sermon one elderly man kindly came to translate it for us.
After church we went to a Peruvian restruant and all had an amazing and very filling lunch of chicken, chips and salad.
Once we finished lunch we sat down in the sun with Kate and most of us tried Mate - a traditional South American drink which is a drunk out of a metal straw and a cup filled with herbs and boiling water that is passed around the group. It was definatly an interesting experience, some didnt like it and some did, especially Ben who later bought his own special cup from the markets which we spent a little time shopping after farewelling Kate.
The day was altogether a lovely day sharing time together and trying new experiances - especially in regards to the Spanish worship and Mate. It came to a perfect end with devotions and a wonderful dinner cooked by Caitlin. We have all really loved our time in Argentina but we are excited to experiance Peru. :)
xxxxxx Susanna
Friday 30 September 2011
Quilmes
Today we woke to a very relaxing morning of regaining lost sleep and shopping for the girls with cards and steak sandwiches for the boys. It was a very valuable morning of unwinding after long flights and hard work.
However, this did not last long. After a train and a bus we arrived at the enormous estate being used by the salvation army to house street kids and provide a safe space for them to come together. While we knew this was a poorer area of the city there were still some large buildings nearby and it had a bit of a nice suburb feel, despite the glass and barbed wire on the fences. However, when Innes (the Salvo's officer looking after the house) took us for a walk down the road we encountered a level of poverty that none of us had experienced before.
Within walking distance of these estates and skyrise buildings we entered the slums at Quilmes, the mud roads were littered with piles of rubbish that local children would sort through to find useful materials that could be sold. Dogs and chickens wandered freely throughout the area. The people lived in mudbrick and corrugated iron. the whole area smelt of the piles of burning rubbish that had already been sorted through. I know I felt quite overwhelmed as I first began to experience the slum, I didnt know how i would be able to relate to these kids who had lived entirely different lives to me and spoke a very different language.
When we returned to the Salvo's building we found many of the kids we had spoken to in the slum had already made their way there. Playing soccer and volleyball or climbing through the playground they seemed just like any other group of kids that you could find. When we went to join them they seemed reluctant to let us join, the boys playing soccer in particular seemed very against us joining the game, untill corrine's translating let us know that we simply had to wait untill the next game, meanwhile it was discovered that the smaller kids were more than happy to be your best friend at the small price of a piggy back ride to the fence.
Finally the boys were allowed into the soccer game. we were ushered all to one side and given one local to join our time against all of them. Despite losing the first game 3-1 we put up a fight against the argentinians and proved that Aussies had their worth. Despite not being able to say more than Si throughout the game we emerged as amigo's and shook hands with the whole team with big grins all around.
We discovered that despite the circumstances the kids are full of joy and great people, all it takes is for people to reach out to them. It will be a long time before i forget these kids and i hope they will not forget us.
A big thanks to Corrine who was the only translater for the whole day and did an absolutely fantastic job of it as well.
Ben B
However, this did not last long. After a train and a bus we arrived at the enormous estate being used by the salvation army to house street kids and provide a safe space for them to come together. While we knew this was a poorer area of the city there were still some large buildings nearby and it had a bit of a nice suburb feel, despite the glass and barbed wire on the fences. However, when Innes (the Salvo's officer looking after the house) took us for a walk down the road we encountered a level of poverty that none of us had experienced before.
Within walking distance of these estates and skyrise buildings we entered the slums at Quilmes, the mud roads were littered with piles of rubbish that local children would sort through to find useful materials that could be sold. Dogs and chickens wandered freely throughout the area. The people lived in mudbrick and corrugated iron. the whole area smelt of the piles of burning rubbish that had already been sorted through. I know I felt quite overwhelmed as I first began to experience the slum, I didnt know how i would be able to relate to these kids who had lived entirely different lives to me and spoke a very different language.
When we returned to the Salvo's building we found many of the kids we had spoken to in the slum had already made their way there. Playing soccer and volleyball or climbing through the playground they seemed just like any other group of kids that you could find. When we went to join them they seemed reluctant to let us join, the boys playing soccer in particular seemed very against us joining the game, untill corrine's translating let us know that we simply had to wait untill the next game, meanwhile it was discovered that the smaller kids were more than happy to be your best friend at the small price of a piggy back ride to the fence.
Finally the boys were allowed into the soccer game. we were ushered all to one side and given one local to join our time against all of them. Despite losing the first game 3-1 we put up a fight against the argentinians and proved that Aussies had their worth. Despite not being able to say more than Si throughout the game we emerged as amigo's and shook hands with the whole team with big grins all around.
We discovered that despite the circumstances the kids are full of joy and great people, all it takes is for people to reach out to them. It will be a long time before i forget these kids and i hope they will not forget us.
A big thanks to Corrine who was the only translater for the whole day and did an absolutely fantastic job of it as well.
Ben B
Thursday 29 September 2011
Dock Sud - Day 2
Hola followers!
Today encompassed the second and final day of our extreme makeover of the school 46 hall. Due to the presence of curious children, yesterday's work was decidedly slow and thus we arrived early this morning so as to finish the job. We then found out that the teachers at the school were on strike and so the school was empty of children, and the painters therefore had no excuse to slack off. The hall was painted much earlier than anticipated (and to a stunning standard, we will be piloting a renovation franchise upon our return) so we headed over to marcelina and marcelinos for a delicious lunch with actual salad (the leafy kind) the wonderful team that had accommodated us then gave a speech expressing their appreciation and acceptance of us into their family, to which we replied in the only Spanish word we knew to express happiness "gracias"(but we Said it passionately) we gave a similar speech expressing our deep gratitude, and we departed with too many cheek kisses to count (at least not on fingers) after an epic battle of tastes between Ben Merrick and Darryl Kelshaw, burgers were served for dinner and Ben emerged victorious.
The only announcement we have is that the phone is not functioning at this time and if you need to contact us please do so via email, the blog or through the hotel.
We thank you for your diligence with the blog and faith in us doing what we do over here, and appreciate your prayers,
Buenos noches!
Chloe
Today encompassed the second and final day of our extreme makeover of the school 46 hall. Due to the presence of curious children, yesterday's work was decidedly slow and thus we arrived early this morning so as to finish the job. We then found out that the teachers at the school were on strike and so the school was empty of children, and the painters therefore had no excuse to slack off. The hall was painted much earlier than anticipated (and to a stunning standard, we will be piloting a renovation franchise upon our return) so we headed over to marcelina and marcelinos for a delicious lunch with actual salad (the leafy kind) the wonderful team that had accommodated us then gave a speech expressing their appreciation and acceptance of us into their family, to which we replied in the only Spanish word we knew to express happiness "gracias"(but we Said it passionately) we gave a similar speech expressing our deep gratitude, and we departed with too many cheek kisses to count (at least not on fingers) after an epic battle of tastes between Ben Merrick and Darryl Kelshaw, burgers were served for dinner and Ben emerged victorious.
The only announcement we have is that the phone is not functioning at this time and if you need to contact us please do so via email, the blog or through the hotel.
We thank you for your diligence with the blog and faith in us doing what we do over here, and appreciate your prayers,
Buenos noches!
Chloe
Wednesday 28 September 2011
Dock Sud, BA
Today we caught the sardine subway to Retiro and met Gerson our guide from BAICA, who is their school counsellor. We then caught the bus to Dock Sud and walked to Marcellena and Marcelleno's house where we were introduced to their family in Spanish, Gerson then translated for us! The family runs the local community centre from their house. Once we met the family we took a scenic tour to the school.
Once we arrived at the school and met some of the students and had photos with them. Then we got into maintenance work in their hall by sanding the walls ready for painting. We then went to Marcelleno/a's house for a typical argentinian lunch. We think it was veal parmagiana with rice and potato's. The servings were huge and the boys had to help out with finishing off the girls meals. After a nice lunch we took a detour and helped raise the Argentinian and Cape Verde (many locals immigrated from Cape Verde - off the coast of Africa) flag to half mast for the first elected democratic leader who died recently.
Once we arrived back at the school we began painting the edges of the walls in preparation for a hard day of painting tomorrow. We really enjoyed the day and mingling with the children, playing soccer with a water bottle and getting to know a different culture and a day in the life of the Marcelino family and their community outreach.
Love Me and Se (Megan and Sarah)
Once we arrived at the school and met some of the students and had photos with them. Then we got into maintenance work in their hall by sanding the walls ready for painting. We then went to Marcelleno/a's house for a typical argentinian lunch. We think it was veal parmagiana with rice and potato's. The servings were huge and the boys had to help out with finishing off the girls meals. After a nice lunch we took a detour and helped raise the Argentinian and Cape Verde (many locals immigrated from Cape Verde - off the coast of Africa) flag to half mast for the first elected democratic leader who died recently.
Once we arrived back at the school we began painting the edges of the walls in preparation for a hard day of painting tomorrow. We really enjoyed the day and mingling with the children, playing soccer with a water bottle and getting to know a different culture and a day in the life of the Marcelino family and their community outreach.
Tuesday 27 September 2011
Buenos Aires International Christian Academy
Hola!
Today marked our first full day in Argentina! We have already found ourselves immersed in the Argentinian culture waking to a continental breakfast consisting of cereal and chocolate cake. Ready and fuelled to go we headed to Buenos Aires International Christian Academy across town on public transport which proved to be an interesting cultural exerpeince! Venturing onto the subway at morning peak we squished onto tiny subway carriages filled with thousands of people before hopping on another 45 minute train to Verreyes where BAICA was located.
BAICA has approximately 130 students from years K-12 and were very welcoming giving us a tour before letting us take Australian geography classes in Year 4, 5 & 6. We spent time teaching all the students about unique Australian animals and iconic landmarks. We were also invited to lead chapel services for Primary and Secondary where we played games, sung songs and encouraged them to remember the love of Christ.
It was encouaging to have all the kids singing along to the gospel songs! The teachers have also offered to take us on a city tour on Saturday which we are all excited for :) The kids were all very friendly and wanted to know all about Australia.
The language barrier has proved a small obstacle for us with ticket officers and other strangers not being able to understand us leaving us with 15 rides rather than 15 tickets! All good fun however and it has been great to see God's protection over us as we travel and negotiate our way across the city.
Adios!
Darryl
Today marked our first full day in Argentina! We have already found ourselves immersed in the Argentinian culture waking to a continental breakfast consisting of cereal and chocolate cake. Ready and fuelled to go we headed to Buenos Aires International Christian Academy across town on public transport which proved to be an interesting cultural exerpeince! Venturing onto the subway at morning peak we squished onto tiny subway carriages filled with thousands of people before hopping on another 45 minute train to Verreyes where BAICA was located.
BAICA has approximately 130 students from years K-12 and were very welcoming giving us a tour before letting us take Australian geography classes in Year 4, 5 & 6. We spent time teaching all the students about unique Australian animals and iconic landmarks. We were also invited to lead chapel services for Primary and Secondary where we played games, sung songs and encouraged them to remember the love of Christ.
It was encouaging to have all the kids singing along to the gospel songs! The teachers have also offered to take us on a city tour on Saturday which we are all excited for :) The kids were all very friendly and wanted to know all about Australia.
The language barrier has proved a small obstacle for us with ticket officers and other strangers not being able to understand us leaving us with 15 rides rather than 15 tickets! All good fun however and it has been great to see God's protection over us as we travel and negotiate our way across the city.
Adios!
Darryl
Monday 26 September 2011
BA, Argentina!
We all arrived safely (despite the airline food) and are now in the hostel in Buenos Aires. After exploring the streets near where we are staying we discovered a great pizza restaurant : D
We are all pretty tired from the jet-lag, but Buenos Aires is amazing. The hostel is pretty hip and happening. We are looking forward to what tomorrow will bring with the Buenos Aires Christian Academy.
Caitlin xxx
We are all pretty tired from the jet-lag, but Buenos Aires is amazing. The hostel is pretty hip and happening. We are looking forward to what tomorrow will bring with the Buenos Aires Christian Academy.
Caitlin xxx
Sunday 25 September 2011
Sydney
On the plane and ready to go! Thanks to all the family and friends who came to see us off. Only 20 hours to go! :)
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