A really big rock...

There’s this really interesting rock that I went to visit last week, it's about an hour away from Abancay. It’s called Saywite and shows the Incan empire: coast, mountains and jungle, as well as representations of animals and important places like Machu Picchu. Lynda (short-termer from NZ) and I got dropped off on the highway and walked down into the valley... and there it was, this big rock in a cage... It made for a good day-trip to find out more about Peruvian culture.


And today is a public holiday because we celebrated Independence Day on Saturday 28th July. I went with Diana to watch her dad march in the parade and help raise the flag... it was interesting for the first couple of groups but then it seemed like we were watching the whole of Abancay march past and it took ages and got a bit cold and boring.

Anyway, all is going well with my family. Diana and Javier didn’t have class for about 3 weeks cos all the teachers were on strike but they started school again last week and won’t have mid-year holidays because of they have to make up all the classes that they missed. After moving back in earlier this month, praise God that we've been getting along really well and as my Spanish improves, I've been able to have some really cool conversations.

Sometimes on the weekends, we got on paseos, where we all pile into the car and drive somewhere or visit someone and then come back. Last week we went with another family and they have 2 little girls... so here's Diana and I mucking around with my camera.

Mi Familia Abanquina

Like every family - we have had our ups and downs. Unfortunately, this week was a major down and I actually moved out. It's been quite stressful and emotional but we've sorted it all out and I'm actually going to be moving back in later today.

When you're in another country on your own, dealing with problems can be tough. But I've been reminded that I'm not alone. God is always here with me and even when I don't know what's happening or don't understand... God is sovereign and always in control. He always provides for us. I am a part of a great SIM team who have been amazing, and as a bonus, I've discovered I have some close Peruvian friends.

So I'm looking forward to moving back in with Luciano, Rossmary, Diana and Javier. Pray that I will continue to live as a light for Jesus and use the opportunity that God has given me to live with this family in this year of language and culture learning.

Just some news of what else is happening in Abancay:

- From Friday to Sunday, the SIM women missos had an interdenominational retreat for the women leaders of Abancay... praise God that it all went smoothly and that the ladies all enjoyed themselves. Pray that they will be challenged by what they learnt and be strengthened in their walk with God and encourage their churches.

- It's actually dry season... and the coldest month of the year here - but for some reason it poured last night and I can see snow on the tops of the hills (which is apparently not normal). Pray for the people in the villages, especially the children, that they will be warm and healthy.