Of Gallo Pinto and MacBook Pros...

Part of what's so cool about this volunteer project is how perfectly suited to our interests and strengths it is. Joel spent Friday night geeking out with a film school buddy about the camera equipment; and I, I raided the library's Nicaragua section.

I feel it's so important for us to have an understanding of the people and culture we'll be traveling in. You can only learn so much from books, of course, but I'm learning tons (more on that to come, I'm sure).

Obviously, I had to include foodstuffs in my research agenda (as I love both to cook and eat). I was not entirely surprised that my search for "Nicaraguan Food" turned up rice 'n' beans (a.k.a. Gallo Pinto). It was especially delightful to share the meal with our soon-to-be travel buddy, Olivia.

It was a blessing to spend the evening with her. We heard about her heart for Nicaragua and its people, talked about the kinds of activities we'll be filming, and peppered her with general questions like "how many pairs of socks should we pack?"

Yes, my friends, this really is all coming together! We even bought a suitcase! As details like these rise and fall, I'm alternately energized and terrorized by them. I am reminded of this verse from Isaiah: "...Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (41.10). Even in things like foreign transaction fees on our credit card or what percentage of DEET our bug spray should contain, He is sovereign.

One final detail hanging as a loose end right now is our computer situation. We don't actually own a laptop, and were waiting for Apple to release a new one (had hoped that would come earlier this fall). However, while it looks like there will likely be a MacBook event next Thursday, that probably won't give us enough time to purchase one before we fly on November 6. Sooooo, if anybody has a MacBook Pro they want to lend out, that would be appreciated :) Or does anyone know of a short-term computer rental option?

Blessings to you this week!

#Nicaragua #Food #Equipment