Encore! Brazil

I don't like encores.

Get off the stage already. Why do people insist on coming back "one more time"? I suppose some of it is ego driven.  I mean, look at the music band "The Rolling Stones". These guys should have already packed it in a loooong time ago. Mick Jagger in his late 60's just doesn't look good in spandex belting out "I Can't Get No Satisfaction".  I guess not Mick, look at yourself! His band mate Kieth Richards isn't fairing much better. He's still 21 going on 90 and most of those years with a cigarette in his face and who knows else what. I'm rambling now....the point is, sometimes enough is enough.

However.....

I can't ignore 2,500 blog views and not come back to say Thank You! That's far from viral but flip....I woulda been happy with 10.  The responses have been so kind they kept me motivated to write every day. A few even said "one more Marty"... you are too kind.. so here it is for the 4 of you still clapping in the back row (-:

I've been home a few days now. Back to work, and back in the saddle again.  The tan is fading, shorts and sandals back deep in the closet.  The 200 hour trip back home was uneventful. There must have been an employees strike at American Airlines on the way back. The flight attendants were all over the age of 80 and probably teens when the Rolling Stones were born.  Now don't get me wrong, I love seniors. I hope to be one myself one day. I just don't think this is a job for them. It requires good balance, stamina, and the ability to be awake for long stretches.  One of the poor "gals" went over board on the make up.  I don't think she put on foundation. It looked more like drywall paste. And on top of that, bright cherry red lip stick. She was sweet, but her face cracked every time she smiled.  She looked like a clown, and for those who know me, I'm afraid of clowns. Long story, another day perhaps another blog.

I lied to the border patrol at customs. I'm afraid of these people too.  I always mess up the answers to the tough questions like, "Where were you born", "Why did you go to Brazil", "What country do you live in now." We live close to the USA border and now my wife drives when we go through it. Even then they still manage to get me. "Sir, could you please take off your sunglasses and why are you sweating". I have had dreams that have ended up badly, usually involving a larger man also called Bubba (See blog # 1 or 2 I forget which). This time they asked if I was bringing through any foreign matter, plant, or organic material from my country of origin.  I immediately said no, because its the safest answer IMO. I declared a few cheap souvenirs plus a bottle of spirits.

Last night however I realised my gaff when I shook out a fist full of beach sand out of my shorts, along with some twigs still stuck to my socks from my tour in the back 40 of the Aldeia Training Center.  Chris Boersema knows the plant I'm talking about and others might too.  The little barbs are like glue and very difficult to remove. I spent 30 minutes peeling them off my socks. Bubba is back in my dreams...

Speaking of shorts, I would like to report that the speedo is alive and well in Brazil.  Yes....they have purchased all the sets off the North American shelves, kept a million pairs, and sold the surplus to Germany. These are the only two nations that still like to prance in these on the beach.  Olympic swimmers wear them too but they can be excused. They also shave their legs, wear skull caps equally as tight, and glasses that make them look a few bricks short of a load.  But for many men in Brazil, the speedo is still the suit of choice.

And while we're on the subject, the ladies too have their suit of choice. It's the bikini. In North America it's generally worn by teens and those who manage to keep their bodies tuned past motherhood.  In Brazil however the bikini has no age limit and that's not always a good thing.

Despite all this I must say that it matters little to them.  We put way too much onus on the physique, and often first notice what's on the outside rather than the inside.  I believe the Brazilians are genuine in the fact they don't judge in that manner.  Big or small, the Lord made them all! No pretence. 

Home does feel good.  I made a peanut butter sandwich that would rival most peanut butter sandwiches. I didn't bathe in a jug of milk but I almost drank the half of it. I didn't lay on the green grass but I did stand on my back porch admiring it. Scotty our Westie was overjoyed and piddled on my shoe, Chloe the cat looked at me and couldnt care less if I had been gone for 2 years. That's ok, the feeling is mutual, I don't like her much either.Despite the cat however, I do hold all of these dear.

I'm not going to get sentimental but I do miss Brazil. I didn't think I would, but a few days later I often found myself thinking back on the clear blue warm water, the succulent taste of goat on a BBQ, the rich warm evenings fused with laughter, the friendly people ready with a handshake or hug, the bumpy rides, the hustle and bustle of the streets, an ice cold Bohemia on the sand, the off tune enthusiastic singing in church (SANTA PAZ!). 

Yup, God created Brazil too. It's obvious, because His fingerprints are all over it!  And not only that, but He's still busy there, even in the little Reformed Churches with blowing fans, and He won't quit until the work is done in His time. Blessings to those who continue to work in the "Great Commission".

May the lives of those around you become enriched through the gospel of Grace. Venha Senhor Jesus Maranatha. Come Lord Jesus Maranatha!

Going Home

Going home soon

  I can't really say I'm homesick.  We've been busy and well taken care of so there's been little time to miss home. Having said that there are a few things I'm looking forward to. Green grass, Peanut butter and Gouda with a glass of cold milk plus a night in my own bed.

  Tonight we are having armadillo and octopus.  I'm really worried about this because they just don't seem to be meats people should be eating.  I'm not sure where they buy armadillo so I'm thinking it could have easily been road kill the night before.  They love their meat down here and they will try any animal that walks or waddles on 2 or 4 legs.  I see lots of dogs on the road so at least that's a comfort.  I'll stick to chicken and beef thank you.

This morning we went to church in Sao Jose, the first church plant in the early 70's.  We met a woman Dona (which means Mrs) Maria who has been attending here for over 40 years.  Say the name Vanspronsen and a bright smile crosses her face. Her husband has attended in the past too but sadly is stricken with Alzheimer's and no longer can come.  He has written and composed some of the hymns that the federation is still singing today.

After church we went to Dona Maria's home to present her with a "Proclaimer" (These are the audio books of the new testament in Portuguese that Mission Aid has been purchasing for the elderly that can't read or get out) Dona Maria was very thankful for the gift that Chris presented her. We listened to a part and read and prayed with her and some of her family. Her husband joined us, and perhaps in a moment of clarity, sang a song for us as well. In his state of mind he was still praising the Lord!. A touching moment.

This will be my last blog and I'm doing it this afternoon because I want a good nights sleep for the 400 hour flight on Monday. Blah....I'm not looking forward to it but I know what awaits on the other end and for that I am also thankful.

It's funny.... after almost 2 weeks I've begun to get used to the things that at first bothered me about Brazil. I don't see the cracked sidewalks, the laundry hanging in the streets, the dirty and bumpy roads etc. I've even become accustomed to the "Ish", to a point where I've almost become a fan of it.  What doesn't happen today will get done tomorrow or the day after....This has all been replaced with an appreciation for the unity they share, the families they cherish and the friendships that are forged. 

Much work needs to be done yet, and I do look forward to my years on the board.  I hope to come back one day soon again!  We've shared and learned and served beside our fellow brothers and sisters and I come back enriched because of it.

The people here desperately covet your prayers and support.  They are so appreciative of what the Lord has provided through our churches over the years.  Starting with a small church in a fishing village with a fluctuating membership of anywhere between 5 and 10 people to a federation that preaches the gospel of grace in a dark country. Who knows what the Lord has in store for the future for us or His people in Brazil. Let us be thankful we can be part of the harvest while the time is still here.

Thank you dear readers for walking along with me. Your encouragement was inspiring, and I hope you enjoyed my jumbled thoughts, typos and poor sentence structure along the way just as much as I got a giggle writing them.  I

By the way, they should ban the foam toilet seat. Mine here at the hotel developed a small crack in the plastic and it hurts to sit.  What a dumb idea.......

Broccolli & Brussel Sprouts

It's humbling to sit on the beach and look out only to realise the next stop out that way is Africa.  More specific, Angola or the Congo. I forget which but it's pretty cool to think about.

We waved our Mission board friends away who / whom? are headed north to the Recife / Aldeia area again to be with the missionary workers. iSteve and myself are staying in Maragogi. We win......

This morning we had our final formal meeting with Chris over breakfast.  We needed to discuss a few more items on our mandate and we're happy to report we've completed our task in that matter.  Being a Saturday and still part of the national long weekend we decided to spend some time kicking back on our own.  We've spent a lot of time together and we're still getting along, but we don't want to tempt that too much so found it best we part ways for a few "self" hours

I spent my time strolling on the beach, sandals in hand, stopping at various beach side straw huts for a cold beer and a relaxing chair.  It's ok to have a beer on a public beach here, and its very nice to see that it's not abused either.  I've not seen any public mischief, lewdness, or macho guys trying to pick a fight because they've tipped one too many.  People are in a good mood, free to wave a hello, and generally are just happy to be there.

Music is a big part of any culture but perhaps more so for the Brazilians.  In certain areas of the beach it becomes a competition for the loudest and biggest systems.  Cars are backed up and trunks are opened with the cavity exposing speakers and subs bigger than dinner plates at the Keg.  They largely listen to a type of Salsa or Reggae which is kinda catchy after a couple of cervejas. Bob Marley lives on down here, even with the younger crowd.

Commerce is alive and well on the beach front too, but the vendors are not bothersome and will just walk by you with their wares. I get a kick out of the ice cream guy walking up and down in 34 degree heat and direct sun. Either his day ends at 10:00 a.m. or he's selling milkshakes for the rest of the day.  The sun glasses guy is doing great business though. His business is year round and he can spot a tourist squinting in the sun from miles away.  Especially the red ones with the farmer tans.  I know I overpaid, but now I've got the coolest looking raccoon eyes....ever......

At night we went for dinner with Chris and his wife Thecia and their son Miguel. Miguel is the little boy I introduced you to a few blogs back. We are good friends and play in the sand together. Miguel is a precious little boy but he's not normal.  He loves Broccoli and Brussel sprouts and will turn down most other foods to have them.  I kid you not, I saw it first hand and I'm still not getting it. I hope he grows out of that because it's just not healthy.

Humble Beginnings

I'm a day behind on my blog. Oh well.....this is Brazil, I'm learning.  The locals would be proud. What doesn't happen today might happen tomorrow. And if tomorrow doesn't look so good then we'll see from there. One can only plan so much. Oh the stress of it all.

Truth is we were all awfully busy. Our plan was to go north and start our visit in the city of Sao Jose de Corre Grande and visit some of the churches further down the coast.  I had a reader ask what the ratio was between sightseeing and actual work.  Let me explain that the two meld into one so as not to create the impression this is all just one big fun fest.  It's a perk of the travel, I won't deny that.  I'm just glad Mission board saw the vision in the late 60's to choose Brazil and not Siberia.

So dear reader(s) when we are touring, or at dinner or lounging we are more than often speaking of the work being done.  We have our formal meetings, but often more is accomplished in a relaxed atmosphere. Some of you will understand that the best decision are made amidst some casual conversation and even a bit of humour.

Chris arranged for a small "tour bus" to take our little group for the day. I use the term tour bus very loose..loosely? Back at home this vehicle would not be road legal.  It was a 13 seater that had a great view of the road, not only through the windows but the floor boards as well.  The corners of all the seats lacked foam padding because previous patrons had chewed through them.  Once again shocks were non existent and every panel and door latch was either loose or damaged which made the decibel count reach higher than most air planes. Even iSteve needed to shout to be heard.

I'm not complaining. Chris looks after us well and I'm sure he has our safety at heart.

We began our tour in Sao Jose, the first Church plant in 1971.  In perspective this was the same year Pierre Trudeau came to power, The pocket calculator was created, and the average house price was $22,000 in Canada while the average annual income was around $11,000.  The Vanspronsens, called by Surrey Mission Board for this work, first explored inland but eventually settled in SJ.  At the time it was a small fishing village with dirt roads, now its a small fishing village with dirt roads.... That's not all together true.  main street is paved and there is a bustling downtown core where our church still stands 40 years later.  We will be serving there this Sunday.

Our second stop was the EBC, the Mission Aid funded school in Maragogi where Moizes hangs his hat.  By Brazilian standards it is a top notch facility and considered an "elite" private school. The tuition is R$160 ($80 CAD) per month. Unfortunately the enrolment is 95% children not from our church federation but in our talks with Moizes, the EBC maintains our christian values and disciplines. Children here begin at the age of 3.

The lot is much larger than I imagined, boasting two large buildings (elementary and highschool), with a soccer pitch, playground, and newly minted gymnasium.

 Moizes is proud of this facility, not for what he has done but for what the Lord has blessed.  He works with an active and enthusiastic school board that is thankful for the support they receive from up north.

In the evening we had the opportunity to meet with principle Moizes, pastor Adriando, and elder Eliandro to get there views on christian education, the future of mission work, and the people of the church in general.

 We've come a long way since the 1970's where Canada needed to be very involved in all the aspects of education and mission. Today our brothers still rely on the support, but are more prepared to walk on their own and make decisions. I'm reserving a bit more of that for my final blog.

Dinner was late last night.  Steak wasn't the best choice.  I've chewed on softer leather baseball gloves. We sell the same stuff in Canada. In comes in bags and its called beef jerky. Now where did I put my dental floss.....

This Goats For You!

The sun came up at 4:30 and didn't wait for me. I got up at 8:30ish so it wasn't even close.

Today was a national holiday in Brazil so we decided we would celebrate with them.  No formal meetings today so we've decided to kick back a bit.  Truth is we continue to talk, even when we're driving, sight seeing or relaxing.  This is not the NHL.

We started out with meeting Moizes and his family. Moizes is the principle at the local EBC (Christian School) and father in law of Chris (Krees) our tour guide and Mission Aid Worker.  Moizes is a very personable man and was delighted to greet us and open up his home.  His words to us "If you were to come and sleep in my house, I give you my bed and I sleep on the floor". I wonder if his wife has any input in that.

People in Canada don't know how to BBQ. We quickly light up the Broil King, throw on some burgers and wolf it down.  In Brazil the BBQ is an event.  It starts at 10:00 a.m. and goes until most have fallen asleep or have to go home.  Included is a cooler with endless wobbly pops and today goat was on the menu. 

Before the feast we got a chance to visit the ocean. Maragogi is a tourist town with beautiful sandy beaches and warm clear blue water, and if we didn't stick out like tourists before then we certainly do now.  The upside is we're not white anymore. We glow in the dark.  It's going to be a long night.

This is my friend Miguel below, he's the eldest son of Chris and Thecia and often tags along with his dad.  We had a grand time digging in he sand. I'm thinking I had more fun than he did (-:

Back to the BBQ, and the smell of goat lingers in the air.

 The meat slowly cooks on a rotisserie, rotissery, rowtissery,  um..spinny thinger..... and it looks delicious. The meat keeps coming and coming by the plate full. I don't think we just ate one goat, it looked like a whole family of them got the bad end of the skewer. 

We topped it all off with a blend of papaya and vanilla ice cream crowned with a berry liquor. Moizes knows how to throw a party, and he's my other new best friend. We left him behind snoring in his hammock on the front porch.

Ocean Breeze

We're down south in the coastal town of Maragogi (say Mah-rah-go-gee)

    Population approx. 25,000 and a stark contrast from Recife.  Life feels a little slower here and they make the best pizza in a quaint little joint on the shore.  Loads of garlic and onion, enough where my breath will probably peel the paint off the walls. No worries, I bought a pack of Camels to mask the smell.

 Today started off with more meetings. We joined Mission Board in their discussions of future plans for the mission work and for the ATC.  Exciting times are ahead!

    We've arrived at night after a 2.5 hour cruise from Aldeia and throughout the town of Sao Jose de Coroa Grande (St. Joseph of the large sand bars) .  Not much to see except for sugar cane fields on fire.  They burn them to take off the leaves and chase away the snakes and rodents before harvest time.  The cane itself won't burn cuz it's moist.

  We came down with a small entourage, so one of us had to take the wheel of vehicle #2. Br. Ken Bulthuis drew the short straw.  He did an incredible job following us, and it only took us 15 minutes to peel his white knuckles off the steering wheel. Like I said, driving is not for the faint of heart here.

 The hotel we're staying at is right on the beach. My patio door is open and a fresh inviting breeze is making its way in making the curtains slowly dance.  The Atlantic is peaceful tonight and the waves washing ashore are gently rocking the fishing boats just a few meters out.

I can't wait for the sun to come up. I might just set my clock to make sure I don't miss it. But this is Brazil so it's probably not in a hurry either.  It will wait for me.

Oh...and another foam toilet seat. Yup, livin the life....

Foam Toilet Seats

Today's plan is a tour into the big city of Recife

   After a good sleep and leisure morning we were headed off at 11ish on a warm and muggy day.  Chris (say Krees) our loyal companion showed up again to spirit us off. Chris is a trooper, and we're thankful for his expertise in navigating through the mayhem they call traffic out here. He's also an excellent tour guide, pointing out spots of interest and relaying the history of places as we go along.

I'm happy we convinced I-Steve (say I-Steve) to leave most of his Istuff at the hotel.  We're going to be hitting some questionable areas of town and it won't do to be plugged in like he normally is.  We already stick out like a sore thumb, and I totally get the food chain when it comes to survival of the fittest if we happen to get held up and need to bolt.  As the slowest in the group I recognise I'm at the bottom of the food chain and most likely to get caught. I'm ok with that, I just wanna limit my chances and not advertise it.

We went directly to the Reformed Reading Room situated in the heart of Recife. Just a few minutes walk away from the main bus deport, the RRR is another one of those diamonds in the rough.  Its in a non assuming area, squeezed between several shops selling food, calendars, and cellular SIM cards.  One can easily walk by without knowing of its existence save for the glass doors and the lettering on them.  The building is narrow but upon entering the cool air is welcoming and the smiles of those inside are equal to it. 

Pastor Julius greets us and gives us a tour of the facility. Reformed literature and CD's line both walls in perfect rows.  A table with chairs and couches invite you to sit and spend some time.  Looking through the literature is encouraged which is also sold at a variety of prices. The profits go back into the RRR for expenses.  The RRR also doubles as a lecture facility with a room in the back set up to seat 20 - 30 students.  It's encouraging to hear that this facility has been a huge blessing to the churches here in the IRB.  Discussions are under way to call a full time pastor for this work alone.

We had the opportunity afterwards to do a bit of touring. We navigated by foot around the area where Chris showed us some of the local sights.  We walked by multiple street vendors, explored an old prison converted into a mall, and visited a local electronics store. 

Loud and vibrant, Recife is a city of contrasts.  The area we walked in was not for the faint of smell.  Sewage ran openly through some of the sidewalk gutters and we even observed a middle aged man rebuilding a small engine on the sidewalk and draining his oil directly into the storm drain. 

We then visited the old part of town where the Dutch settled in the 1600's.  They brought with them several missionaries and the reformed faith was alive back then already.  At one time they had as many as 20 missionaries just for the city of Recife......a stark contrast to what we have now!

Back at our hotel, and we're happy to be off our feet and sitting down. Speaking of sitting down, when did foam toilet seats go out of vogue in North America? The 70's? or 80's? I think Brazil bought over all the left over inventory.  I gotta admit they are very comfy if you're a sitter..... I'm gunna buy one when I get home.