Thankful
Hay-Hay! That is Cree for thanks. Here in Paraguay, the indigenous language word for thank you is Aguyje. This month there was a lot to give thanks for.
Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated annually on the second Monday of October, and it holds no historical ties to indigenous relations as it does in the USA. This Thanksgiving was extra special because my mom made her first trip to South America to spend three weeks with me.
In place of pumpkin pie, we picked up a pastafrola (filled with guava and quince) and shared it with the ladies of our church. Sis Bir prepared a non-traditional Thanksgiving meal for my mom and me and set up fall decor on the dining table. It was such a kind gesture!
Christian School
The school year is coming to a close soon. All the English classes are wrapped up, and we only have a few more kid's services left.
My mom was touched by the children's services. She once excitedly whispered in my ear that even if a few of these kids and their families came to God, the church would be filled. I could only grin in agreement.
Nations Fair
The lower grades showcased the different American nation's cultural dances, dress, and foods for their parents. The kids were so proud, and the parents were very supportive. It also was the most adorable thing to witness.
I took the morning as an opportunity to represent my nation, Nehiyawak (Cree.) It delighted the students in my English class because they had wanted me to do so for some months. :D
Touristing
The timing was perfect; right after English exams, I was afforded a week off to spend quality time with my mom.
Argentina
My mom's dream was to visit Buenos Aires (BA) one day, and since it was so close, we could not pass it up.
The city blew my expectations! The architecture blends Parisian-Barcelonian Neoclassical, Art Deco, and Art Nuevo styles (without Guadi's Nouveau Catalán influence). This former art history teacher was nerding out!
There are so many free things to do and see in BA that a small budget is sufficient for a week. If you go, we recommend visiting the church in Liners, outside the centre of BA. They are a lovely and friendly group of believers!
Day trip to Uruguay
We hopped on a ferry to Uruguay to visit a UNESCO World Heritage site, the old town of Colonia del Sacramento. The place gives Portugal Mediterranean vibes. I used to live on the Mediterranean Sea, so it was a delight.
Despite having the grandest time, I was eager to return to Lambaré...
Sunday school
Our Sunday school students are deepening their appreciation for the written word of God. They want to read the stories directly from the Bible without being prompted—a teacher's dream and prayer come true!
For my October lessons, the students examined the conversion and obedience of Zacchaeus and King Josiah. I don't know if there is anything else in life I enjoy more than illustrating, writing, and teaching lessons to children.
I want to thank Sis Royer, a former missionary to Uganda, who opened that up in me. When I AIMed under her and her husband in 2001, she had me teach the teen Sunday school class and connected me with Pentecostal Publishing House. Thank you, Grandma D.