Happiness is Chichicastenango Growing Nearer and Nearer

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21

Well, you guessed it... I got assigned to work in Chichicastenango! Actually, I will be in a small town (Chuabaj) about 20 minutes away (no off-roading required) seeing patients and getting involved in health education at the school and working with the local officials on addressing public health concerns in their town.

I was able to talk to the director of the health department here in Chichi today, and he was suprised by my visit (not expecting to receive an intern), but said that they had lost the nurse in charge of one of their biggest clinics so was happy to place me there. He even asked if I would stay longer! While Nebaj wasn't a bad place and we were excited to get to see some new territory, we sure were relieved to find out we would be back here in Chichi. I guess this place is growing on us.

God has been more than generous and we are so grateful to him not only for this opportunity, but also giving me the assurance and peace we've prayed for during this transition. Thanks to everyone who has prayed and written and called. We will keep you up to date on the various happennings.

On the Health Talents front, Kemmel is at a small hotel on Lake Atitlan with the rest of the team for an administrative retreat with our stateside director, Rick Harper. They have been tackling issues and planning for the coming year, in addition to enjoying some recreation time. Kemmel just called and said there had been a mixup and the cook didn't make it for dinner, so they ordered pizzas from a place in Panajachel--they were delivering them by 30-minute taxiboat ride out to the cabins! (It pays to be in a tourist area.) But, true to Guatemala style, the delivery boy got off the boat , and then he realized that that was the last boat for the night and wasn't scheduled to return to Panajachel! The team had to hire a private boat to get him back to town. Life in the fast lane........

Well, so long for now.