Day 34 in Ecuador

After my usual morning routine of quiet time and breakfast, Dale and I Skyped Nate Taube, the head coach of Cumbre Alta who is currently in the States. We had a very nice chat in which Nate affirmed that Dale and I were doing a great job and that he wants us to consider coming back someday. It was really encouraging to hear this as at times it can feel like we aren't making much of an impact. 

More Pichincha pics

Once we were done Skyping, we were asked to lead the World Race team that is living in la Casablanca to Pan de Vida. World Race is where a group of people go to 11 countries in 11 months doing different service projects in each country. Taking them to Pan de Vida was a cool opportunity to get to know the people on the team more. 

It turned out to be about a 2 hour round trip, so when we got back it was about lunch time. After eating lunch Dale and I got started on some financial work for the afternoon. This afternoon we worked on creating financial templates for Interns that Inca Link can use in the future. Once we were done working, I was able to rest a bit.

I then cooked myself some dinner before heading off to Cumbre Alta practice with Dale. Practice tonight was at the new field built at La Luz. We did a hard workout at the beginning of practice and then finished by playing some 5v5 on the field. Overall, it was a fun practice but also frustrating for me personally. Sometimes players will try to speak to me in Spanish and I really struggle with understanding them. I also would love to be able to interact more in their conversations so that I could get to know them better and they could get to know me better. These frustrations were highlighted tonight at various times. Please be praying that I would be reminded of the impact I am making and that God's love can be spread even despite language barriers. I need to trust in God and know that He is at work, despite my incapabilities.

Practice at La Luz.

Once practice was over, Dale and I got a ride home with a couple of the players. This was also frustrating for me because our conversations in the car are usually awesome chances to get to know the players more. The players we rode with tonight were quieter and didn't seem to want to talk as much.

As I reflect on the day, I realize how God is revealing to me to just trust in His work. He gave me encouragement this morning through Nate and then I was faced with some frustrations in the evening. God provided the encouragement I needed and that should be enough for me to realize that God is at work despite what may seem otherwise. Be praying that I would learn to trust in God more and that through my frustrations I would continue to glorify Him.

Dios Bendiga,

Nico

Day 33 in Ecuador

Dale and I started the day at 7:00 by going for about a 2 mile run. We both said how are legs felt like jelly at the beginning of the run which was frustrating, but we ended up getting through it and did some hills at the end. Definitely a good way to start the day.

After breakfast, we got back into some financial work. The first thing we worked on was creating an investment policy for Inca Link. Joseph had sent us some information about what the rules and guidelines were and he wanted us to make it into a formal document for future reference. After this project, we worked on creating a financial template for future short term teams coming in. This will be used by the missionaries down here that help lead and decide budgets for teams. 

We then took a break for lunch and smoothies. After lunch, we researched and took notes on another new donor management system. We finished our work by recording the many different receipts that the interns had received from teams. We use these so that the interns are able to get their stipends.

We finished our work for the day and got some time to hang out with the other interns. We then went shopping for some groceries for the week. I ate a sandwich for dinner and ended up grilling some chicken with Dale to be used for the rest of the week. The rest of the evening was spent hanging out with some interns.

It was definitely hard to get back into doing some financial work today after having a great week leading the team. I struggled with having a good attitude and really feel like I am making an impact. Please be praying that God would work through my attitude and that I would remember the impact we have already made with our work and that God isn't done working through us.

There also are a lot of people in la Casablanca right now, which can be overwhelming at me at times, due to being around people a lot. Be praying that I would be able to find the balance between finding time to rest and being by myself but also getting to know more people and being open to opportunities that God is showing to me.

So today wasn't nearly as exciting as days in the past, but this will be how most of our days will be in the future. Be praying that I wouldn't get discouraged but that I would realize how much Dale and I are helping Inca Link.

Dale and I having a staring contest with ourselves.

Thanks again for reading and for all your prayers!

Dios Bendiga,

Nico

Day 32 in Ecuador

Today we had the opportunity to sleep in and catch up on some rest in the morning, which was very much needed. After a very relaxing morning, we had a mini church service at la Casablanca. We did some worship and some people shared some things they were learning from God from the time they had with their teams. We then had a debrief with all the interns talking about our experiences with the team. It was a good time of sharing and helped me personally to learn more from what we had experienced and to learn ways in which we could be better leaders.

Me, Megan, Dale

We then went to the tienda with some other interns to buy some food for lunch. The afternoon consisted of cleaning, cleaning, and more cleaning. We had to get the house looking nice for some more teams that are coming in tonight (Dale and I won't be leading anymore teams). Jake and I helped clean the boy's bathrooms, which were absolutely disgusting (I won't go into anymore detail than that). After cleaning those, I helped to sweep all the upstairs alone, which was actually very nice to get some time to myself and just time to think also. After I was done with that, I helped to make some beds with Dale and Megan. Overall this afternoon of cleaning wasn't too bad and I was able to have a joyful spirit throughout it.

Anna, Me, Edgar, Dale, Megan, Jake

Dinner time came and we decided to go out to eat. We first tried to go to a chicken place called Koko Riko, but it was closed due to a power outage. Then we tried Capri burger which was also closed. We finally decided on eating at the bus station, Terminal Carcelen. They have many different food stations along here and we stopped at one where I got some empanadas and a sandwich. Once we got back, I was able to Skype my parents for a bit and then spent the rest of the evening hanging out with the other interns.

The team next to their amazing work of art.

Although today consisted of more work than rest, it was definitely a good day. Getting to see the other interns again and hear stories from their teams was a blast. I am so grateful for the relationships I have been able to make with all of them and for the fun times we can have together while doing some not fun things. 

Praise God for the joyful spirit I was able to have today and for the wonderful relationships that He has provided. God is good and I am so grateful for all the ways He has been working in me and through me this summer despite my many failures and weaknesses.

Be praying that I would continue to make the most of my time here. I have been really looking forward to going home, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I can't get preoccupied with leaving while I'm still here. God still has much more planned in the next 3 weeks and be praying that I would be ready for whatever He throws out there.

Dios Bendiga,

Nich

Day 31 in Ecuador

What a crazy, crazy day. It started off with a relaxing morning, which was very nice to have after a very hectic week. We had fun hanging out with some interns that returned from leading their teams in the morning. We got picked up around 11:00 by Mejia who drove us to Cumbre Alta's game.

Before the game, I got to talk with Mejia some more about his life and got to know him a little more. Mejia is a sweet dude and I'm so happy for the relationship we have been able to build. Please be praying that through the bond we have already made that I would be able to witness to Mejia and that he would be welcome to hearing the gospel.

The snowcapped mountain, Cayambe

This game was another thrilling game and turned out to be more exciting than last week. They started off by going down 1-0 due to a goal that many thought should have been called back for offside. But, Cumbre responded about 5 minutes later by scoring a goal of their own, making 1-1. It was 1-1 going into the second half and ended up staying that way the whole half. In the first half of overtime, the other team scored another controversial goal that should have been called back due to a foul. The second half thus began with a 2-1 score, but Cumbre didn't give up. They had a free kick from about 25 yards out and ended up scoring on the rebound. Everyone went crazy, including Edgar who, in his excitement, spiked his clipboard which ended up snapping it in half. It was 2-2 with about 10 minutes remaining in the game. Cumbre wasn't done yet though. After about 5 minutes, they got another free kick from about 40 yards out that ended up going wind due to the goalkeeper misreading the kick. That goal ended up giving Cumbre the victory which means that they have been promoted to the next league! You can check out a video Dale made which has the two goals from overtime in it. https://www.wevideo.com/view/425966147

The craziness wasn't over. Once the ref blew the whistle, Dale and I went to go cheer with the team. All of a sudden, we realized that a brawl had started to break out. One of the players on the other team was swearing at Edgar and going crazy and started the whole fight. It ended up lasting about 10 minutes. I was just wandering around wanting the brawl to stop but afraid of interfering as well. It was one of the most intense events I have ever experienced. Edgar and Mejia had some good words to say to the team afterwards about how they acted. It was definitely a crazy experience but everyone came out without any serious injuries.

Cayambe again.

We then made our way home with the Inca Link Ecuador team and celebrated the victory with some delicious gelatto. The rest of the night was very relaxing and consisted of hanging out with the interns, eating at Capri burger, and skyping my beautiful girlfriend.

So today was definitely a crazy day. The brawl was a terrible way for the game to end, especially after how awesome Cumbre had just played. Please continue to pray for this team that they would learn from what happened today and that God would continue to mold their hearts. I have grown to love hanging out with them and getting to know them. I want them to know Jesus so bad and I pray that God would give me the boldness to share and that He would influence them in ways I can't.

Today marks 1 month that Dale and I have been here. It is crazy to look back on what all we have experienced and the ways the God has challenged me personally and the many different things I have learned while being here. Your prayers and encouragement have helped support me in more ways than you know! Thanks again for all your support and keep on praying!

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 30 in Ecuador

The last day with the team is already here. After a long week with a lot of work, it is amazing that the team is already gone. I truly believe that God was working in many different ways throughout the team.

In the morning after breakfast, Edgar gave talked to the team about their service this week. He talked about how their work means nothing if God is not involved. It was a very important message for the team and one I hope that they will remember.

We then made our way to La Luz to take pictures of the team's artwork. I was once again amazed at how good of a job they did. After hanging around there for a little, we went to Pichincha and rode the teleferico to the top. The team absolutely loved the view, which it is very hard not too. After taking a view pictures and enjoying the view, we went and found a spot for lunch.

The leaders of the group then lead a debrief about the whole week for the team. They emphasized the work of the Holy Spirit and listening to it's call. It was good time of reflection on the week and how this week will change the way they live when they return to the States.

Once we were done, we left to go to the market again so that people could buy more souvenirs for their family. When we were about to leave, one of the cars batteries died so Dale, Megan, the team leaders and I all had to take a public bus back to la Casablanca. The bus was very crowded but it was nice to get to spend some more time with the leaders.

After arriving back to la Casablanca, we quickly got dinner ready for the team. We then had the final debrief which was lead by Anna and Gustavo. This was another chance for the team to reflect on the week and ways in which they think God is calling them to change. It was so cool to hear some of their answers and to see the ways that God was working in their hearts.

We then said goodbyes as the team was rushed out of the house. Now the team is at the airport waiting for their flight at 12:00 and la Casablanca has some peace and quiet. Though there were many difficulties and frustrations with this group, I really had a great time leading them. God was teaching me new things and also working through the team as well. Praise Him for His amazing power and for His much needed grace.

Although it is sad to see the team go, it is also nice to be able to have some time to rest. God is so good, in so many different ways. That's what I'm reminded of as this team has left. Thanks again for reading and for all your prayers and support!

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 29 in Ecuador

Working in the kitchen at Camp Hope.

Today was our last day of service with the team. We began by going to Camp Hope again this morning. I was assigned kitchen duty, which consisted of cleaning out the cupboards with a rag. While in the kitchen, we also got the chance to talk to Lucia, who works for Camp Hope as a cook, and Angelo, who is a volunteer that is 15 years old. It was awesome getting to know them and practicing my Spanish at the same time.

Other groups worked on sorting out donations, such as clothes or toys, playing with the kids, and other cleaning jobs. Gustavo told us that there is only one lady in charge of cleaning and that with how busy she is with other stuff, she would have never gotten around to clean the stuff we cleaned. Hearing stuff like that just made me realize and I hope made the team realize how big of a difference they are making, whether it may seem like it or not.

Right before we were about to leave, we had a dance party with the kids there. One of the kids would do a move and we would all copy him and it would make him smile and laugh so much. Once we were done, we prayed for the ministry. Being able to hang out with the kids just for a little bit was so special. Seeing their smiles as we danced with them was so precious and really showed God's beauty in the midst of what some would consider a weakness. We found out as we were leaving that one of the kids had escaped Camp Hope and that they couldn't find him. Please be praying for this kid and for this situation!

After Camp Hope, we drove back to la Casablanca for a delicious lunch made by Mabe and Fabi. We then went back to La Luz to finish up some painting that we had to do. You can see in the picture how awesome of a job the team did with the logos. We were pumped to finally see it finished and so excited at how amazing it looks.

We then headed to the academy practice for Cumbre Alta. We ended up playing gringos versus Ecuadorians and the gringos ended up losing 2-1. We then ate a packed dinner and Dale, Megan and I got to split off from the group for a bit to hang out. Practice with Cumbre Alta was next at 7:30. I loved playing with them so much and it was another fun night of practice. The players seem excited and ready to play their game this Saturday!

So good. They painted this.

Finally we made our way back home, hung out a bit, and went to bed. It was awesome to see the team working hard today and seeing their work finished. I really hope that this team understands how valuable their work has been and how it will really help to spread God's kingdom. Please pray that these kids would understand how much more valuable life is when you lay down your own desires and serve wherever God desires. This is something that I am still learning and have learned a lot more about since being down here.

Thanks so much for all your prayers as this team has been down here. It has been an exhausting but very good week.

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 28 in Ecuador

Another good day with the team, God is definitely moving in the hearts of some of the team members. We had a different agenda today. After breakfast, we walked to a place called Camp Hope. This is a place where kids with disabilities live and are cared for. The name is very appropriate because Ecuador does not have many places that take care of kids with disabilities.

Once there, we were given a tour of the place and then split of into various groups to help on some projects they had for us. My group was the "construction" group, but what we actually ended up doing was moving a bunch of supplies such as wheelchairs, tables, and crutches out of a room, cleaning that room and the supplies, and then moving those supplies back into the room. This took us all morning and it was cool to see the finished product and how much neater the room was after we were done. Other groups worked in the kitchen, helped weed, and also play with the kids.

We ate a packed lunch at Camp Hope and then proceeded to work more in the afternoon. My group did pretty much the same job at a different location. We were also able to talk a little to our boss, who works at Camp Hope. I always love hearing about the lives of Ecuadorians and it is so cool how open they are to share. While we were working, we got to watch some of the team members play soccer with the kids from Camp Hope. This was awesome to see them playing and so cool to see the joy in the kid's smiles.

Once we were done working at Camp Hope, we walked to Supermaxi so that the team could buy some snacks and also to a Panaderia close by. We then headed home and were able to have some time to rest for about an hour or two. This rest was very nice, especially since I had been feeling groggy earlier in the morning.

We then ate a quick dinner and headed off to practice with Cumbre Alta. We left in two cars, one car going earlier because Edgar had to get there on time for practice. Before the second car got there, which was the one I was in, Jason, the coach/leader for the Colorado team, gave a brief devotion to the team. I didn't get to hear or see this but I pray to God that it impacted the Cumbre Alta players and that God would continue to work through their hearts as they hear the Gospel.

Practice went well and we ended up scrimmaging at the end again, and ended up tying 1-1 again. Cumbre Alta seems very excited for their semi-final game on Saturday which is awesome to see. We then headed home and debriefed about the day before everyone went to bed. The debrief went well and it seems like the team is really learning the power of serving and how much better life is when we think about others first. Please keep praying that not only this team, but us leaders as well would lay down our selfish desires and thoughts and put others before us.

God is doing wonderful things with this team. I have loved leading them and have learned a lot about leading in the process. God has revealed leadership abilities in my that I would never have thought existed 5 years ago. God is so good. Praise Him for all the work He is doing down here and all the work He will continue to do in the future.

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 27 in Ecuador

Saying goodbye to Patrick.

Today turned out to be very similar to the work we did yesterday. After breakfast, we made our way to La Luz via public transportation again. The team worked very well in the morning. We had some people outlining the logos of Cumbre Alta and Inca Link that are being painted on the wall close to the field. We had some people painting some more and touching up on areas we couldn't get to with rollers. We had other people helping put the net up. Finally we had people helping move a pile of bricks. It was awesome to see everyone pitching up and working hard on many different things to make the field look nice.

We took a quick break for lunch before getting back to work. The afternoon was much more frustrating for me. The main thing that some people worked on was painting the logos, which actually looks awesome. Besides that main project, there wasn't much other work to be done. This is frustrating for me because I want this team to have many service opportunities and as a leader I want to be able to provide that but it's not in my power too. It's also frustrating because I feel like the team members weren't necessarily looking for work to be done either. These two things made the afternoon more challenging but I'm hoping that tomorrow will turn out better.

After we finished up for the day, we headed back to la Casablanca. The team had about 2 hours of free time while the interns helped clean the bathrooms and helped Mabe and Fabi cook dinner. After dinner we headed to a field to practice soccer with Cumbre Alta. The beginning was separate except that Dale and I practiced with Cumrbe Alta. After doing some fitness, we scrimmaged at the end, gringos vs. Cumbre Alta. We ended up tying 1-1, Dale scored a beautiful goal. Afterwards, one of the leaders of the team from the States shared the gospel with Cumbre Alta. Be praying that this message will enter into their hearts and that God would be moving inside them in powerful ways. 

Headed to soccer practice.

We then headed back to la Casablanca, hung out some more when we got back, and then went to bed. The more I have hung out with the team the more I have felt that I have been able to connect, which has been awesome.Keep praying for this team and that God would be working through Dale, Megan and I's leadership. Be praying that I would continue to show grace and have a positive attitude with the team even though they may do things that frustrate me.

Thanks again for reading. Your support encourages me so much!

Dios Bendiga,

Nich

Day 26 in Ecuador

Before we painted the wall.

This morning began just like the past mornings. After breakfast, we ended up taking a public bus to the 5v5 soccer field that is being built at the church called "La Luz". Once there, we were lead by Samy, who works with Cumbre Alta. We were told that we would be painting a huge wall. So that is basically what we did all day at La Luz. We are trying to make the field and the area surrounding the field look nice so that people will want to come.

The team worked really well together today. We were very efficient and painted the whole side of one wall and got started on the next wall. It was cool to finally have a day of service together. After a break for lunch we played a fun dancing game called "Little Sallie Walker" (I think that's what it was called). This was a fun time to get to connect with the team members more.

Painting the wall.

After finishing up for the day, we made our way back to la Casablanca via a public bus again. Once back, we gave the option for some of the team members to go play at the dirt soccer field close by. Dale went with them while Megan and I cleaned up, rested a bit, and went on a quick shopping trip for Mabe for dinner. We helped cook dinner and clean dinner while the team had a chance to relax.

Once we finished cleaning, which actually took quite awhile, we made our way outside to make a fire. Here we sang some worship songs before getting into our debrief time. Dale, Megan and I hadn't really planned that much for the debrief but it actually turned out really well. It was cool to see God working through them and to see what God has been teaching them. As leaders, we desired for these debrief times to get deeper since we weren't able to lead them the first couple of days.

The fire got a bit crazy.

After debriefing, we chilled around the fire more, sang some more worship songs, and just talked. It was a great time to connect more with the team.

Today turned out to be an awesome day. God definitely has been moving in these high schooler's hearts. They were very open and honest during debrief which was very cool to see. He also has given multiple opportunities to connect more with the team which is something we were desiring since they arrived. God has also developed in me a passion for leading. It feels awesome to be able to be a tool for God to help draw people closer to him. Please keep praying that God would continue to work throughout this team and that He would continue to guide our leadership. Praise Him for all that He has done already! He is a good God!

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 25 in Ecuador

As I reflect back on today, I see the glory of God. It was a day full of challenges and obstacles but one in which I see God at work. In the morning after breakfast, Dale, Megan and I lead a bible study on the Parable of the Great Banquet. We thought it ended up going really well and had a lot of good discussion on being invited to the Kingdom of God and the challenges of choosing that invitation. 

After bible study, we made our way to La Luz again. We sang How Great our God and 10,000 Reasons in Spanish which was really cool. The team noticed and appreciated how lively and friendly the church members were at this church. 

We then made our way to the Middle of the World to do the tour we had done with the other interns previously. They all really enjoyed this tourist activity, especially learning about some of the cool stuff about the Equator. At the end of the tour, there was a dance that someone performed. He ended up dragging in a lot of us to dance with him and it was a lot of fun! 

Once done, we made our way back to la Casablanca to change quickly into soccer gear. The plan was to play at a 7v7 field with the Browns but the owner of the field wouldn't let people with flats play, so we ended up going to Alliance Academy and played 11v11, which was awesome. We played old people, which included me, versus most of the team and the old people ended up winning 3-0. 

After soccer we went to eat at Pollo Campero. On the bus ride back to la Casablanca, I lead a brief debrief of the day. We talked about their thoughts about the church and differences between their home church. We also talked about frustrations they had throughout the day. Not being able to play on the 7v7 field was one of them, but Dale pointed out that it turned out better because everyone who wanted to play was able to and we ended up having a lot of fun. The scrimmage was also a good segway to talk about the power that soccer has to bring people together. A lot of the people on the team say that soccer is their life. It is cool to see that they are passionate about soccer but we want them to see how they can use this passion to glorify God, and I voiced this on the ride home. Be praying that the words spoken tonight would impact them and that God would continue to open their hearts to the plans He has for them.

As I said, reflecting back on the day I see God working throughout it. The team so far has been frustrating for Dale, Megan and I due to their disrespect and poor attitudes. Despite these challenges, I see God working through our bible study and through debriefs that we have for them. God has been speaking through us and I am praying that this team would be impacted by the words from God. 

Tomorrow we will be serving all day which will be awesome. Be praying that the team comes with a servant's heart and begin to understand what it really means to serve God. Also be praying for Dale, Megan and I's attitude as we lead this team. We can get frustrated easily which can hurt our chance to try and connect with them so be praying that God would fill us with His grace and allow us to see this team in His eyes.

Finally, a big shout out to my awesome father, Jonathan Leaman. Thank you for all the support you have given me throughout my life and especially as I have been here in Ecuador! Love you so much!

Dios Bendiga,

Nich

 

Day 24 in Ecuador

This morning was the same as yesterday. The team ate breakfast at 8:30 and we helped clean up afterwards. Dale and I then left to go to the Cumbre Alta game with Mejia. Mejia's parents drove us to the game. The ride was really nice to get to talk to Mejia more and to meet his parents. They are very kind and wanted to make sure that we are able to go to their country home at some point. 

This ostrich doesn't look to happy...

We arrived to the game and got to talk to some of the players before they started to warm up. During warm up I was able to talk to one of the players who is unable to play in games because he doesn't have the necessary papers, at least that's what I think he said. It was cool to get to practice my Spanish with him (he barely knew any English) and to get to know him in the process. 

Cumbre Alta warming up.

The team from the United States came to watch the game as well so Cumbre Alta had many fans for a very important quarter final game. The game turned out to be very exciting which was frustrating because all I wanted to do was watch the game, but I had to film it which took a lot of concentration. Cumbre Alta was scored on early in the second half and it seemed as if they were going to lose. But they put the pressure on with about 20 minutes left in the second half and ended up scoring a PK off a hand ball in the box. The rest of the game Cumbre Alta was attacking and playing so well, it was very exciting to watch. The game ended up going into PK's. They were tied 4-4 after 5 players went. The PK's then went into sudden death and Cumbre Alta finally ended up winning 7-6 in PKs! The players stormed the field and chanted "CUMBRE". It was awesome to see their hard work pay off and to see how happy they were. They only need to win one more game in order to be promoted to the next league.

After the game, we then headed to the market with the team from the States. Many people bought many different souvenirs here and enjoyed bartering with the Ecuadorians. We then made our way back to la Casablanca for a delicious meal made by Mabe and Fabi. After dinner and cleaning some dishes, we headed back to Panecillo so that the team could check it out. We weren't there for long before we had to head back to la Casablanca and eventually head to bed.

Panecillo

Something that Dale, Megan and I have been talking about is how we have struggled to connect with this team. We are trying to keep positive attitudes throughout their time here which can be a struggle when it seems like they don't want to connect with us at all. Please be praying that God would give us positive attitudes and that we would trust in His power to move within the team. 

It also was a very busy day. I felt like we were constantly moving and never really had time to rest. I partly love this and love being able to help Mabe and Fabi out with meals, but it is also hard to be constantly going all the time. Please be praying that God would give Dale, Megan and I the energy we need to lead and to serve. 

God is good, despite the fact that we have face some difficulties thus far in our leadership of the team. I know that God is doing work and will continue to do work throughout the time this team is down here. Praise God for his faithfulness!

Dios Bendiga,

Nich

Day 23 in Ecuador

The team ended up arriving this morning around 1:40. We greeted them and gave them basic instructions before heading to bed. This morning I got up at 7:00 for quiet time, time to plan the day with Megan and Dale, and helping set up breakfast for the team. During breakfast, we introduced ourselves and shared about Inca Link's 5 pillars - give 110%, be here now, choose joy, challenge by choice, and love covers all.

We then headed to COVi for the morning to help them with garden work. They needed tomato trees to be dug up and wheelbarrowed over to a different location where we had to dig more holes. This was a hard project but good at the same time. The team worked really well together and we got a lot of work done. The director of COVi seemed to really appreciate our work which was awesome to see.

It was around 1:00 when we headed back to la Casablanca for lunch. After lunch the team was free to do whatever they wanted until dinner time. Some of the team members went for a walk while Dale, Megan and I did some more planning. I was then able to watch the Ecuador game with some of the team members which was a lot of fun.

Before dinner, we played a game of zoo with the team who seemed to enjoy it a lot. When we were eating, one of the team members ended up sharing a shortened version of her testimony with me. Her testimony encouraged me a lot with my walk with Christ and just made me realize the power of God's work and will.

Dinner was followed by debrief, which was lead by Gustavo tonight. The team members interacted well with the questions asked by Gustavo and overall it seemed to go fairly well. We did a little bit of cleaning up and hanging out after debrief before finally going to bed.

Today was a great day. God continues to send many forms of encouragement which are a huge blessing. Although today was great, it was also very tiring. Please be praying for energy for all of the team and the interns. Also be praying that God would be at work within this team and that they would be impacted positively through this trip.

Also, shout out to my awesome brother Ben Leaman. Happy birthday! I hope you had an awesome day celebrating!

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 22 in Ecuador

This morning, we found out that our team would be arriving at 11:15 tonight. This was actually good news because we were told that they may have to wait until Saturday night to come. After finding this information out, Dale and I decided to get some more financial work done in the morning. We were able to finish up the project we had been working on before going to grab some lunch with Cheng, another intern.

After lunch, we had to help move fridges from la Casablanca to Casa Elizabeth, which is right next to la Casablanca. We ended up having to take apart one of the fridges, clean out some fridges, and in total we moved 3 fridges. It was a tiring task but felt good to get done.

As soon as we were done with moving the fridges, Dale and I made our way to the U12 academy practice for Cumbre Alta. This was fun again to get to hang with the kids and try and teach them better form for kicking a ball. We then went to explore a place to eat dinner and ended up at the same place we had gone yesterday. This was actually our third time going to this mini restaurant (we usually get empanadas de pollo and ham sandwiches). The lady remembers us and we told her that we would keep coming back because we usually have time to kill after the 4:00 Academy practice until Cumbre Alta practice at 7:30. You never know how God may work and this could be another area that Dale and I could show her and the other workers there the love of Jesus. Keep her in your prayers!

Dinner was followed by soccer practice, which was a lot of fun tonight. We got to talk a lot with players, play goalie, and scrimmaged at the end. There was also a good turnout which was awesome to see because Saturday is a very important game. Keep praying for this team and amazing ministry that it is!

Dani, one of the Christians on Cumbre Alta, drove us home along with two other players. This was a good ride and chance to talk with the players more. Dani ended up asking us some deep questions about what we believe. It seems like he is still trying to figure out what he believes exactly. Keep Dani in your prayers as we continue to have these chances to talk with him and as he is discovering his faith.

Our team should be arriving to la Casablanca within the hour. I have gotten a lot more excited over the past couple of days for them to come. It's going to be a busy week with them, but I know that God is going to work in amazing ways. Keep the team and the leaders in your prayers as we seek to serve God in what we do.

After a rough day yesterday, I definitely felt all your prayers today. God helped me to maintain a positive attitude throughout the day which lead to better experiences at practice and throughout other activities I did. Keep praying that this positive attitude would keep up and that I would constantly be reminding myself that I am here to serve God and God alone.

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 21 in Ecuador

Playing some guitar outside.

This morning, three interns left for the coast around 7:30. Be praying for them as they lead a team down there. After saying goodbye to them, I had some breakfast and then had another great skype with Joseph Fisher. He once again has been affirming a lot of what we are doing which feels great. After talking with Joseph, Dale and I worked on a project for about 2 hours until lunch.

I practiced some more guitar before Anna and Patrick got back from eating out. One they got back, we had a meeting to discuss the team that is coming down. Dale, Megan and I will be leading this team who is staying until next Friday. The meeting was very helpful and informative and got me excited for the team to come down. I always love having a plan and this meeting helped prepare me for knowing what's going on.

Pan de Vida

After this meeting, Dale and I did some more work on the project we were working on in the morning. We then had a quick talk with Megan to make sure we were prepared for our team before leaving to go to Pan de Vida. We met up with Cody again and went and "helped out" at Pan de Vida. They had so many volunteers and interns there that there wasn't much for us to help with. It was nice however to get to talk with some kids and see the ministry. After the kids left, the group of volunteers and interns gathered together for a quick discussion of what God has been teaching them. One Ecuadorian man shared his testimony about how he recently came to Christ. It was awesome to see how God worked in His life and to see his new heart for the Lord.

Chilling with the dogs!

Dale and I grabbed a quick dinner before heading to Cumbre Alta practice. There were a lot of players there tonight which means we couldn't participate as much, but we were able to help out with things such as training the goalkeeper, Sebastian. Mejia drove us home again and we had another good discussion with him.

Once we got back to la Casablanca, we found out that our team missed their flight to come down to Quito. There first flight was delayed for 3 hours. So it turns out that the team might not be coming until tomorrow night now. Be praying for this team as they will probably have to stay the night in the airport.

Looking back on this day it looks like it should have been a pretty good day. I, however, struggled with selfishness and a bad attitude much of the day. Part of this has been homesickness but also just not realizing why I am here, and that is to serve the amazing God that created me. Please be praying that God would show me grace and that He would continue to change me and teach me how to properly serve him. Be praying that I would gain a servant's heart and that any selfish thoughts I may get would thrown out of my mind immediately.

Thanks everyone for your prayers! I really am appreciating all the support!

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 20 in Ecuador

Making beds for teams coming in.

This morning started off with some more financial work for Dale and I. We worked more on the cost/benefit analysis which we were able to complete. We sent it to Joseph who was very pleased and ended up sending our project to Rich and Elisa Brown. It is awesome to see how much our work is helping Inca Link in their decision making. I didn't realize they would value our work so much!

After working a lot in the morning, Dale and I took a break to help out the other interns who were cleaning la Casablanca in preparation for teams coming. We then ate lunch together and ended up heading out to a market near a park called El Ejido. We then headed to the Brown's house for another intern night. Here we hung out, ate pizza, and shared our highs and lows of the week.

At the Brown's house.

From here, we made our way to practice for Cumbre Alta. This was another good practice, but also very tiring as it was another work out day. Although these practices are exhausting, Dale and I both appreciate the fact that we have the chance to get fit with others as opposed to running on our own. After practice, Dale and I rode with Mejia back to la Casablanca. As always, this trip was fun for us. We are excited to be able to hang out more with Mejia once we have more free time.

The progress for the "La Luz" field.

Tomorrow will be a very full day. Some of the interns are leaving at 7:30 in the morning to go to the coast to lead a team. Be praying for safe travels for them and as they prepare to lead their team. Also be praying that God would energize me as we have a lot going on over the next 10 days. The team we are leading is arriving tomorrow night around 11:00. Be praying that God would work through me as I help to lead this team and that this experience would help me to grow in many different ways. Also be praying for the team as they come in and as they help with ministries here.

My blogs may be sparse over the next week or so due to this team being here, but I will try to keep up as much as possible. Thanks for all your encouragement
through your comments and prayers!

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 19 in Ecuador

That mountain is Pichincha, the one we climbed on Friday.

Today marked the beginning of another work week for Dale and I. We started working on the financial report for missionaries that we had been working on Thursday. We ended up getting a good head start on that project before taking a break.

At 10:00, Dale and I had planned to have one of the Cumbre Alta players, Rolando, come to la Casablanca so we could teach him English. We went to the bus station to pick him up at 10:00, but he didn't end up showing for about 45 minutes. This was partly frustrating because he was late but he also told us that he was 15 minutes away when he was in fact 45 minutes away. But Dale bought some Doritos at the local tienda that made everything alright.

So we went to la Casablanca and Rolando met most of the people staying there. We then gave him an English lesson for about an hour before he had to go to class at his high school. The lesson went really well and it was fun to get to hang out with him too. He is planning on coming tomorrow again so be praying for these lessons that he would learn a lot and that we would continue to build relationships with him in the process.

It was clear enough to see this snow-capped mountain, Cayambe

After our lesson, the interns all went to lunch at a local Almuerzo restaurant. We then had a meeting going over things we need to know for when the short term missions teams are coming down. After that meeting, Dale and I got 2 more hours of work in, this time working on the cost/benefit analysis we had started last week.

Once we finished work, Brad joined Dale and I for a quick run. We then ate dinner and made our way to Edgar's house to watch film of the game from Saturday. This film session ended up lasting until 10:00 which was a long time, but we were able to get a ride home from Sebastian, which helped get us home quicker. We found out at Edgar's that Cumbre Alta made it to the Quarterfinals of their league (they thought they weren't going to make it).

Edgar coaching it up.

It was fun to get to hang out with some players, but also a very tiring night. The trip home was also nice for me because I got to talk to Rolando in the back while Sebastian and Dale rode in the front. I love being able to practice my Spanish while also getting to share about myself. Rolando is easy to talk to and seems to enjoy our company. I'm excited to see where God leads this relationship!

That's pretty much it for today. One of the interns, Matt, hasn't been feeling well lately so prayers for him would be much appreciated as well. Thanks for checking in again and thanks for all your prayers!



Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 18 in Ecuador

The field by la Casablanca

Another relaxing day ensued for Day 18. We didn't head to church until around 11:00 so we had time in the morning to relax which was very nice. The church service was very nice today. There is something special about worshiping in another language. I have grown to really enjoy the church even though it is hard to understand at times.

After church we ate out at a delicious restaurant and then made our way back to la Casablanca. When we got back, we got to skype the Peru interns. It was awesome to get to talk to them for a little bit but also made me miss them more! Keep praying for them as they have Missions teams coming down this upcoming week that they will be leading.

We then had the opportunity to play soccer against the local Ecuadorian family again that we played against last week. This time we mixed up the teams and once again had a blast. The grandmas watching in the stands were so sweet and loved getting to watch us play.

We had to leave after about an hour of playing to go back and eat a quick dinner. We had plans after dinner to go play more soccer with the Browns at a 7v7 turf field. This was tons of fun and a lot more competitive than our pick up game earlier. We played against some other Ecuadorians and ended up winning 5-2.

These pics just don't get old.

Today was filled with a lot of fun. It was great to get to hang out with the interns all day. We also had some good conversations about tough topics and life. It has been a huge blessing to get to know these interns so well over the past couple weeks and to build strong relationships with them. Praise God for all the encouragement and support he provides!

Another short post, but another good day. Be praying for this upcoming week that Dale and I would be able to get a good amount of work done for Joseph and that we would glorify God in the process!

Dios Bendiga,
Nich

Day 17 in Ecuador

We didn't have anything planned this morning so I was able to sleep very well and as much as I needed. I decided to go for a run after some quiet time, which I wasn't sure how it would go due to the fact Quito has very few flat areas. The run actually ended up turning out well which was encouraging because Dale and I weren't sure where we were going to be able to run that wasn't a long bus ride away. 

The rest of the morning I spent time making some breakfast, studying some Spanish, and practicing some guitar. We all then left at 11:00 to go to Cumbre Alta's game. Dale took stats while I filmed the game, which they ended up winning 5-2! They played very well and it was fun to get to talk to the guys afterwards. Be praying that God would continue to further these relationships and that Dale and I would invest in their lives and show them Christ!

More Pichincha pics.

After the game, we ate lunch at an empanada restaurant and then headed back to la Casablanca to relax. We ate dinner and then left to go to the airport to pick up a new intern named Megan that's helping Dale and I lead a team later this week. We ended up pulling a prank on Megan that we hoped would be hilarious and help to break the ice. It actually worked exactly how we wanted, which we were surprised about since we weren't sure how she would handle our surprises. She felt at home and it was a cool to be able to get to know her some tonight!

It was nice to have a more relaxing day today after a very busy week. Be praying that God would remind me of his strength and power this week as it'll most likely be another busy week. The hike up Pichincha was a huge example of God's greatness that I do not want to forget. 

Dios Bendiga,

Nich

Day 16 in Ecuador

Wow. That about sums up today in one word. Since Wednesday's attempt was cancelled for inclement weather, today was the day that we decided to climb Pichincha. We got up fairly early in the morning and left la Casablanca around 8:30. We took a Teleferico, which is a Gondola, up to the top of one of the mountains in Quito. Once at the top, we started our trek to the top of Pichincha, which was around 10:00 am.

The top of the mountain where we took the Gondola too was about 12,000 feet above sea level. We were hiking to a point that was about 15,000 feet above sea level. As you can imagine, the altitude made this hike very strenuous. The first hill alone about wore us all out, but we kept moving along. We stopped at around 11:30 to eat lunch and were a little more than half way there. After lunch came a very strenuous part of the hike. We finally made it to the top at around 1:00 pm. The hike took us around 3 hours which Patrick and Anna said was a very good time.

This was the most physically demanding hike I have ever done. The hills we had to go up were so much worse due to the fact that breathing was difficult. There was in inward battle inside of me. Part of me wanted to stop and go back but the other part of me desired to get to the top of the mountain. It was so worth it to complete that hike. Standing on top of that mountain was a feeling like none other. What we had to go through to get there made us all feel very accomplished.

Our view at the top of Pichincha.

For me, this whole trip was a reflection on this upcoming summer. When I was at the top of the mountain, I went off on my own to a rock to stand on. The wind was blowing fiercely and I sensed the presence of God around me as I stood in awe of his Creation. Before we had gone off on my own, we had read scripture mostly about the greatness of God and how He is always with us. As I was standing on that rock, I realized that any "mountain" that I would have to face throughout the summer I would be able to go through because I serve a God that's love is never ending and that's power is stronger than I could ever imagine. This moment gave me so much courage for this summer and helped to calm the fears and anxieties that I have. 

I wish I could have stayed up on that mountain for the whole day. You could not see anywhere around past the rocks because the clouds were surrounding us. It was a very unique experience that I will never forget. We eventually made our way back down the mountain much quicker than it took coming up. We took a Gondola back down and after stopping at the supermaxi for dinner, made our way home. 

The rest of the evening consisted of cooking dinner, relax
ing after a long day, and watching a movie. As you can see from the pictures, today was an amazing day. Though the pictures don't do it justice, I hope that you are able to see just a little bit of what I was able to experience today. Praise God for the many wondrous ways that He works and for the many forms of encouragement that He sends down. God is so, so good.

Dios Bendiga,

Nich