Saturday in Ixtlan we went Christmas caroling (or in my case, more like Christmas croaking)and afterwards we celebrated Jan's birthday. Marshall built a lovely fire in the fireplace of Bethesda (the guesthouse). I had brought the rest of my banana bread and a bag of bunuelos to share. Between the two of us, Bev and I clearly decided that pineapple atole is not the best choice of beverage(especially when compared to Abuelita Hot Chocolate). and my last weekend in Ixtlan for the year 2010 came to an end. My drive back to GDL Sunday was probably more on the Mexican style of driving. I think I it was finally hitting home that I was headed North the very next day!!!!!
All last week I had made myself tackle one cleaning job a day. Doesn't seem like a lot, but really, there's not much involved when it comes to cleaning my apartment. (Taking that into consideration, you'd think I'd actually clean more often than I do!)Due to that, and after giving my floors a good mopping Sunday evening, there was no cleaning for me to do Monday morning. I just had to pack. I underwent a hair straightening as well being as it's much easier to travel with straight hair. It made me smile this year as I remembered my friends in the past complaining that I didn't value them enough to straighten my hair for them. I only straightened it to go home. And then I stopped smiling realizing that all of those friends are no longer with me. They've all moved away from GDL for some reason or other.
I'd made arraingements last week with a taxi driver for a ride to the airport. Talking to the driver last week I never actually told him my address. I just asked him if he would be available on Monday to drive me and that I lived on Seris. He replied with Seris? Oh yes, the yellow building! I've seen your car!" Boy, that made me feel unsafely stalkable!!!! But either way, at least he was ready and waiting for me even before our decided upon time, and I was off on my way home.
I have to be honest. Landing in Chicago last night and seeing the snow I was scared. I didn't want to leave the plane and find out if I could handle the cold or not. Thankfully it hasn't been too bad so far, but then again I've stayed inside so far. Inside with central heating, and carpet, and nice cozy warmness. Mom, Dad, I fear you have forever extinguished any desire I'd ever have for 5 star comfort. Who needs 5 stars when I get luxury for free at home!!!! Thank you!
Hasta!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Yo estoy floja!
The last wave of international students are making their ways to their prospective homes for the holiday this weekend; more specifically, I'd say the exodus started yesterday and will continue until Monday, myself bringing up the rear as I fly off into a winter wonderland this coming Monday, the 20th. I called it the last wave as the "first" wave was about 3 weeks ago with a steady trickle throughout the three weeks floating in between the two waves.
My original plan for my last post was to write a thank you to everyone who has been a support in prayer.....and then plans got changed, and instead of writing a thank you I ended up asking for additional prayer. Horrible way to show gratitude, I know. But I'm back on track now, just a few days behind.
I am very aware of the power of prayer as this year I have been along for a ride through life, Jesus driving and our car powered by a never ending fountain of prayer. It is proving to be a most amazing ride for which I do not take for granted all those who have prayed making it all possible. A few highlights: being able to take the step 1; passing the step 1 and being able to advance onto 5th semester; being able to make it home for Christmas
All were miracles made possible by prayer. I thank you and whole heartedly pray that you are richly repaid for your thoughts and prayers this Christmas season! God bless you!
Sick update:
I'm doing much better. Antibiotics wiped out the vexatious thing (Thank you God that Alexander Fleming was messy!) But if I had to analyze my state now, I'd say that the bacterial infection was taken care of but not first without lowering my immune system enough that some sort of virus set up home. In other words, I'm sounding kind of manly and I've got a pretty nasty cough still. Finally has come in handy that here in Mexico every corner store sells a wide variety of HALLS. I'm going through them fairly quickly, but they keep my coughing spells under control, and with the rest of Mexico treating them like candy.....
Hasta!
My original plan for my last post was to write a thank you to everyone who has been a support in prayer.....and then plans got changed, and instead of writing a thank you I ended up asking for additional prayer. Horrible way to show gratitude, I know. But I'm back on track now, just a few days behind.
I am very aware of the power of prayer as this year I have been along for a ride through life, Jesus driving and our car powered by a never ending fountain of prayer. It is proving to be a most amazing ride for which I do not take for granted all those who have prayed making it all possible. A few highlights: being able to take the step 1; passing the step 1 and being able to advance onto 5th semester; being able to make it home for Christmas
All were miracles made possible by prayer. I thank you and whole heartedly pray that you are richly repaid for your thoughts and prayers this Christmas season! God bless you!
Sick update:
I'm doing much better. Antibiotics wiped out the vexatious thing (Thank you God that Alexander Fleming was messy!) But if I had to analyze my state now, I'd say that the bacterial infection was taken care of but not first without lowering my immune system enough that some sort of virus set up home. In other words, I'm sounding kind of manly and I've got a pretty nasty cough still. Finally has come in handy that here in Mexico every corner store sells a wide variety of HALLS. I'm going through them fairly quickly, but they keep my coughing spells under control, and with the rest of Mexico treating them like candy.....
Hasta!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Yo estoy enferma!
So it turns out I was right to be temerosa on Sunday. My sore throat and cough have progressively gotten worse from day to day adding various symptoms to a growing list of symptoms. I had worked all last week with Anjuli, who had started feeling sick on Friday. I found out on Monday that Anjuli had finally gone to the ER on Sunday and been diagnosed with influenza. It made me nervous, my cummulating symptoms matched Anjuli's. However, there is no one to make me go to the ER....so I don't. Our head doctora at the IMSS finally caught me today noticing I was short of breath and asked why. I figured I could just say I'd ran up the stairs....but I hadn't, so the truth came out. No labs where done on me so I can't say for sure that I have influenza, but all the signs point to it. In short, I can't remember ever feeling like this before. My lungs feel like they are going to explode whenever I cough. My skin feels like it's on fire, but I can't get warm enough. They sent me home from the IMSS and told me not to come back. I am very happy to oblige them and stay at home under my enormous pile of blankets.
Prayers that this rather vexatious thing (it's not worthy of a proper name) is destroyed sooner rather than later.
Hasta!
Prayers that this rather vexatious thing (it's not worthy of a proper name) is destroyed sooner rather than later.
Hasta!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Yo estoy temerosa! Me duele la garganta!
Let's start with a background story:
In Ixtlan, Sunday church is started in the morning with all the children at the front of the congregation and we all sing children's songs. The number of children can vary from three to fifteen the very next Sunday. Last Sunday, as one boy was singing up front his father brought his baby brother (12-14 mo? I'm not sure) up to stand next to him putting the todler's hand in the hand of his big brother. However, as they continued singing the older boy let go so that he could do the hand motions that accompanied the songs. It wasn't long and as his baby brother was fidgetting he lost his footing and fell head first down the two steps to the hard tile floor of the church. He cried, was taken out, and was fine in no time, but the reason for this story is the older brother. The poor boy could barely continue singing as he was fighting tears, and clearly visible plastered across his face was fear and guilt.
I finished up my rehab rotation last Friday with not a very pleasant experience, but definitely one from which I learned. I was conducting therapy on one patient and all of a sudden she yelped in pain. It took all of 3 seconds for me to remedy the problem, and everyone continued on...except me. I couldn't get past the fact that I had hurt her. I felt the fear and guilt that I'd see on that boy's face last Sunday. So like I said, it wasn't a pleasant experience, but at the same time, with each new experience I am able to acquire I am becoming better equiped to deal with the thousands of situations that await me, lurking behind closed doors and dark unknown turns.
This weekend was happy for me in Ixtlan as it brought the return of two parts of my Sibaja family home after their visits to the States. Issa Sibaja had been in the States since the end of June when she, her sister Lupita, and I had all traveled together up to Chicago. Her mother, Lourdes, had gone to the States about mid-October. I wasn't the only one. Lupita was very very happy to have her mom and sister home again.
I fear winter weather is coming to the area to stay. So cold at night, and then warm during the day. Unfortunately my concrete and tile apartment is content to just stay at cold all day long. Regg and Bev run Saturday mornings and so I was going to try to join them, but then they said that they go at 7 am! I dismissed that idea. IT IS COLD AT 7 AM!!! So Bev offered to run twice. She and I went on a run at about 11, comfortable shorts and T-shirt running weather. Much more my speed. ;) I stuck to putting on extra layers and wrapping up in a blanket at 7am.
A few pictures from the weekend:
This little pumpkin is Isai (Jesse in English). He's about the opposite of Matt and Ruth Gerber's little guy. Isai will actually sit still! :)
For the past couple weeks we've been in the process of making the Christmas pinatas! We started decorating them last night. This is supposed to be a pig...if you couldn't tell!
Hasta!
In Ixtlan, Sunday church is started in the morning with all the children at the front of the congregation and we all sing children's songs. The number of children can vary from three to fifteen the very next Sunday. Last Sunday, as one boy was singing up front his father brought his baby brother (12-14 mo? I'm not sure) up to stand next to him putting the todler's hand in the hand of his big brother. However, as they continued singing the older boy let go so that he could do the hand motions that accompanied the songs. It wasn't long and as his baby brother was fidgetting he lost his footing and fell head first down the two steps to the hard tile floor of the church. He cried, was taken out, and was fine in no time, but the reason for this story is the older brother. The poor boy could barely continue singing as he was fighting tears, and clearly visible plastered across his face was fear and guilt.
I finished up my rehab rotation last Friday with not a very pleasant experience, but definitely one from which I learned. I was conducting therapy on one patient and all of a sudden she yelped in pain. It took all of 3 seconds for me to remedy the problem, and everyone continued on...except me. I couldn't get past the fact that I had hurt her. I felt the fear and guilt that I'd see on that boy's face last Sunday. So like I said, it wasn't a pleasant experience, but at the same time, with each new experience I am able to acquire I am becoming better equiped to deal with the thousands of situations that await me, lurking behind closed doors and dark unknown turns.
This weekend was happy for me in Ixtlan as it brought the return of two parts of my Sibaja family home after their visits to the States. Issa Sibaja had been in the States since the end of June when she, her sister Lupita, and I had all traveled together up to Chicago. Her mother, Lourdes, had gone to the States about mid-October. I wasn't the only one. Lupita was very very happy to have her mom and sister home again.
I fear winter weather is coming to the area to stay. So cold at night, and then warm during the day. Unfortunately my concrete and tile apartment is content to just stay at cold all day long. Regg and Bev run Saturday mornings and so I was going to try to join them, but then they said that they go at 7 am! I dismissed that idea. IT IS COLD AT 7 AM!!! So Bev offered to run twice. She and I went on a run at about 11, comfortable shorts and T-shirt running weather. Much more my speed. ;) I stuck to putting on extra layers and wrapping up in a blanket at 7am.
A few pictures from the weekend:
This little pumpkin is Isai (Jesse in English). He's about the opposite of Matt and Ruth Gerber's little guy. Isai will actually sit still! :)
For the past couple weeks we've been in the process of making the Christmas pinatas! We started decorating them last night. This is supposed to be a pig...if you couldn't tell!
Hasta!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Yo estoy lista para la navidad!
Guess who's coming home for Christmas!!!!! Me! That's who! With a capital Y, Capital O, YO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
There are six of us currently at our specific IMSS hospital completing our guardias. Without us saying anything, on the very first day, the doctora in charge. Asked us how we would feel about finishing early, and then went on to tell us that they'd do what they could to see that we'd be able to be home for Christmas. Nothing was said after that and we went on our way and got settled into our rotations for the week. Then today us pre-internados (a.k.a. pre-intern students) were called together for a meeting. Lots of importants things were discussed...you know, things like posada! But I couldn't believe my ears when our date of release was decided. It is absolutely amazing how superb my schedule turns out when I am not in control of it!
- Posada is a Christmas tradition in Mexico. Basically lots of food and fiesta making. Us international students are going to be hosting a posada for all the doctors! I'm really looking forward to experiencing my first posada (although I'm sure it'll have an American twist to it!)
I was scolded today during our meeting. The doctora went over what is "family medicine" which led her to talking about family, and directing her attention at us females addressed the difficulties of juggling medicine with having a family. But after this, I forget what exactly the topic was, but she asked us for our relationship status. When I replyed that not only was I not married, but that I didn't even have a boyfriend, I got scolded! Apparently I should not be single! Oh dear, I was a bit flabbergasted. I didn't bother with responding.
This week at the IMSS I've been in rehab. basically, fractures, sprains, post-surgeries, etc... It's easy enough that by today I was handling patients on my own. Honestly, I'm a bit bummed as rehab is the most boring of all the possible rotations, but either way, I'll learn what I can and be thankful for fact that I am able to be there.
Hasta!
There are six of us currently at our specific IMSS hospital completing our guardias. Without us saying anything, on the very first day, the doctora in charge. Asked us how we would feel about finishing early, and then went on to tell us that they'd do what they could to see that we'd be able to be home for Christmas. Nothing was said after that and we went on our way and got settled into our rotations for the week. Then today us pre-internados (a.k.a. pre-intern students) were called together for a meeting. Lots of importants things were discussed...you know, things like posada! But I couldn't believe my ears when our date of release was decided. It is absolutely amazing how superb my schedule turns out when I am not in control of it!
- Posada is a Christmas tradition in Mexico. Basically lots of food and fiesta making. Us international students are going to be hosting a posada for all the doctors! I'm really looking forward to experiencing my first posada (although I'm sure it'll have an American twist to it!)
I was scolded today during our meeting. The doctora went over what is "family medicine" which led her to talking about family, and directing her attention at us females addressed the difficulties of juggling medicine with having a family. But after this, I forget what exactly the topic was, but she asked us for our relationship status. When I replyed that not only was I not married, but that I didn't even have a boyfriend, I got scolded! Apparently I should not be single! Oh dear, I was a bit flabbergasted. I didn't bother with responding.
This week at the IMSS I've been in rehab. basically, fractures, sprains, post-surgeries, etc... It's easy enough that by today I was handling patients on my own. Honestly, I'm a bit bummed as rehab is the most boring of all the possible rotations, but either way, I'll learn what I can and be thankful for fact that I am able to be there.
Hasta!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Yo estoy contando con los dedos del pie.
I'm back from Ixtlan, and I'm tired and achy, but am definitely happy to be so. Saturday morning Regg, Bev & I went hiking.
This is a view of La Mula from our starting point.
Proof that after treacherous rock climbs, slick land slides, sheer drop-offs, annoying insects, and much sweat we made it to the top in record timing!
Bev & I on top of the world!
The second you crest the top of la mula you forget all about the work it took to get there. It was so worth it!
Hasta!
This is a view of La Mula from our starting point.
Proof that after treacherous rock climbs, slick land slides, sheer drop-offs, annoying insects, and much sweat we made it to the top in record timing!
Bev & I on top of the world!
The second you crest the top of la mula you forget all about the work it took to get there. It was so worth it!
Hasta!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Yo estoy contando en mis dedos.
This week went by so fast. Finished up our Psychiatry rotation being the only 20 students still at the HAL campus as everyone else had finished the week before. Segundos were offered this week for all other semesters. My neighbor probably assumed I had failed all my rotations as I was taking off in my whites and with my backpack everyday. No sir, no....I just look clueless!
I came to Ixtlan on Friday this week, and have been enjoying my weekend hanging out with Regg and Bev Beer. I'll post pictures after I get back to GDL.
This blog post I actually wanted to do a little up-date on how Bible studies have been going in GDL. This semester we started out with just 4 of us which diminished to 3 after one of our friends went home in September. However, despite our small number we continued every week. And actually, due to the small number, we changed our Bible study format to topical Bible studies designed for discussion instead of working our way through various books of the Bible. Looking back, it was a good approach to our studies as we started out, but as we've gotten closer as a Bible study, gracias a Dios our discussions have developed and become much more in depth and productive. Thanks to God for helping our small Bible study grow and yet stay true to His Word. Further praise goes to God for then taking the next step and actually increasing our numbers. Recently, within the past month, God has brought three more individuals to join us in worship and study of His Word every Wednesday evening. I also have one more personal praise to give God. God has made it possible for this Bible study to continue regularly every Wednesday night for over two years now. This semester one atendee, who has been a regular the whole time, has taken a step (or maybe a growth would be a better word) and volunteered to prepare and give Bible study. It's one thing to come and listen. But hearing the Gospel is not enough to save one's soul. Taking a further step to do personal study and then apply it and practice it....it must make the angels dance. I am so thankful for God's coninued presence and blessing as we study through His Word. I am also incredibly thankful for all prayful support this study has received. I don't know what kind, if any, impact these feeble attempts at standing up for Jesus will have, but all praise goes to God, and all blessing goes to it's prayerful supporters.
God Bless you!
Hasta
I came to Ixtlan on Friday this week, and have been enjoying my weekend hanging out with Regg and Bev Beer. I'll post pictures after I get back to GDL.
This blog post I actually wanted to do a little up-date on how Bible studies have been going in GDL. This semester we started out with just 4 of us which diminished to 3 after one of our friends went home in September. However, despite our small number we continued every week. And actually, due to the small number, we changed our Bible study format to topical Bible studies designed for discussion instead of working our way through various books of the Bible. Looking back, it was a good approach to our studies as we started out, but as we've gotten closer as a Bible study, gracias a Dios our discussions have developed and become much more in depth and productive. Thanks to God for helping our small Bible study grow and yet stay true to His Word. Further praise goes to God for then taking the next step and actually increasing our numbers. Recently, within the past month, God has brought three more individuals to join us in worship and study of His Word every Wednesday evening. I also have one more personal praise to give God. God has made it possible for this Bible study to continue regularly every Wednesday night for over two years now. This semester one atendee, who has been a regular the whole time, has taken a step (or maybe a growth would be a better word) and volunteered to prepare and give Bible study. It's one thing to come and listen. But hearing the Gospel is not enough to save one's soul. Taking a further step to do personal study and then apply it and practice it....it must make the angels dance. I am so thankful for God's coninued presence and blessing as we study through His Word. I am also incredibly thankful for all prayful support this study has received. I don't know what kind, if any, impact these feeble attempts at standing up for Jesus will have, but all praise goes to God, and all blessing goes to it's prayerful supporters.
God Bless you!
Hasta
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