As all my friends from the U.S. are aware, yesterday was our independence day. Although I'm not one to really care all that much about holidays besides Christmas, Easter, and birthdays, this one will most certainly not be forgotten. Jess, CJ, and I went to the Grand hotel for our coop dinner. The hotel staff were probably quite confused when three groups of gringos walked in about five minutes apart and sat at opposite sides of the restaurant. Anyways, I had my favorite meal there--a toasted chicken and avocado sandwich--and we even got free pastries after. Guayaquil celebrates their foundational holiday (whatever that means) during all of June, so that was probably the reason for the free food.
We then had extended time with the Lord, which I spent curled in bed with a devotional and the book of Amos. The Lord used that time to convict me about fasting, for whatever reason. I didn't really have any idea why, but I figured He knew me better than I do so I went for it today. It was much easier than I expected, but deeply instructive. I didn't feel hungry until about five, but even though we went to an apparently amazing restaurant for dinner--Frutabar--I didn't have trouble denying everything except for water (which they brought out in a bottle with a giant goblet). Needless to say, I'm going back there sometime next week. I started thinking about the relationship between needing food to satisfy physical hunger and needing the Holy Spirit to satisfy spiritual thirst. All in all, it has been a great day of self-denial in order to hear God.
Back to yesterday, the leadership mysteriously told us to meet in Linsey's room at nine. We opened the door to a darkened room and a fireworks display thanks to youtube.com. The evening included rousing rounds of "God Bless America," the national anthem, and a U.S.A chant inspired by chocolate cake,. This soon turned into a dance party to very American music; including, but not limited to, "Party in the USA," "Don't Stop Believin'," and " Sweet Home Alabama." Some of us then headed up to the 14th floor--known as the h-core party floor (a wedding ballroom)--to play Nertz. It's basically group solitaire. I have to say it's probably the most stressful game I've ever played as it's a mixture of speed and awareness.
Today on campus was another blessing. Megan and I went out together, which is already scary due to our collective lack of extensive Spanish skills. We ended up having two great conversations with four people and we now have two new sisters in Christ!
This evening we walked to Las Peñas, which is a hill/mountain with lots of colorful houses and a lighthouse at the top with a beautiful view of the city, to take pictures and watch the sun go down. It was more great time bonding with the team.
Tomorrow morning we're leaving for Cuenca--a village in the highlands. The 60 degree weather is going to be a refreshing break for the daily 80 degrees in the city. Please pray for safe travel, rest, and growth in team fellowship.
Ashley
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