The Crazy Bug!

Well today we had a fun discovery! We went to say hello to some friends here and they told us to come in. They also told us they wanted to show us something. We had no idea what it was and then we saw IT! It was the biggest, oddest, unique insect we have ever seen! Steve and I realized the kids would love to see it, so we returned later with the kids and our camera. Even our friends, who are Guatemalan, had never seen this insect before and didn't know what it was or if it was dangerous.
The kids were amazed and so curious when they saw it! Noah kept going closer and closer and yet we didn't know if it was safe to go close. So I took a ton of photos and the kids and I began investigating, once we were at home. We found out it was a Giant Harlequin Beetle, commonly found in tropical places, living in trees (especially fig trees or dying, decaying trees). It is not supposed to be dangerous or poisonous to humans as it feeds off trees and sap. I have never in my life seen a beetle quite like this one! So fun to learn and live the experience- just part of our adventure here!

Almost three months....update!

I can't believe I haven't written in so long and that we have almost been here three months. The time sure has escaped us as we have been very busy here. It is exciting to see how we have settled in to a routine, found friends, have our favorite spots, and we are already looking forward more great experiences.
In our first three months we have learned a lot of important things about this country, culture, ourselves, and the place we are serving in. So often it seems when we think we have it all together, God brings change, and we have to rely on Him, ask Him for help and guidance. It is such a good thing to have change in our lives, even when it is challenging or hard at times. I am so thankful for the changes in our lives that God has brought about and the changes we have experienced here so far. We still have a ton to learn.
There are so many fun and great things about living in Guatemala. I will list some off as there are so many that I can think of right now: 1 pound of fresh strawberries for less than a dollar, sunshine everyday, kind people, learning a new language, kids playing soccer outside with the neighbour kids, cheap yummy icecream often, eating every meal together as a family, going to the pool in town for free, enjoying fruit from our backyard, and most of all feeling God leading us everyday. We are in the place God wants us and it is so fullfilling to be here, serve and love the people!
If you are reading this and wondering where God wants you or if He is asking something of you, look to Him, read the Bible, and pray! He will show you, guide you, and be with you every step of the way- no matter how old you are, what stage of life you are in, or where you are at financially- God's plan is perfect and He wants to use you! That is exciting! We hope our lives will encourage you to obey God, serve Him, and follow His call- it can be to reach out to your neighbour, your family memebers, your boss, or to another place.... He first loved us that we would extend that love to others. We love you all and pray you will be encouraged today!