My Third Anniversary

Today marks the finish of year three in Chile. Three years ago this morning, I arrived in Maipú. I don't have anything profound to say with that, just noticing that as time goes by, I am more confident that each day with God is an adventure, being pursued by His love, and living in obedience. I find myself surprised by Him that today, I woke up next to my husband, Jonathan, and think of the many wonderful things that have happened in three years.

While we ate breakfast a few minutes ago, I got caught thinking about the future. Sometimes, it can be a bit scary to think of it too long. So, I decided to just stay in the moment, and live each day to its fullest. I thank God for giving life, giving love, and teaching me to follow Him.

The Selección

So, Jonathan was given a ticket to the Chile-Venezuela Selección game tonight. It's a birthday present. I decided not to go. I decided awhile ago. It is his first time in the stadium. I'm not worried about the fans, this is not a local rival game, it is the game that Chile unites with her best players. He is with his brother, his brother's girlfriend, and his cousin Sara. It is raining! I'm watching it on TV, and imagining him there....

jumping up and down, hugging his brother in glee and fanaticism, stuff he normally wouldn't do...

when Chile scores a goal.

It's fun to know that we don't do many things separately anymore. We miss each other when we are apart. I'm glad for that.

Wedding Day in Chile

Our wedding day in Chile, August 15, was a very cold and rainy winter day. We received our guests at the door again, and enjoyed seeing many friends and family for the first time in over a month. I also met many new people who I had never met before.

The cake had an interesting topper on it. They said it was not reflective of our relationship and that is why it was funny. Heh, heh, heh.

Jeff P did the ceremony and it was a fun, relaxing time for us, even though we were a bit cold.

At the end of the ceremony, a couple of pastors and wives and family were invited to come and pray for us.

People sat at their tables from the beginning. It was a pretty full house.

We definitely enjoy the kissing part. We made sure that Jeff put that in again!

With Jonathan's Grandpa Eliseo and Grandma María.

With Uncle Joel and his wife, Soledad, and daughter (our cousin) Debora, and her son Jorge.

This lovely family has a new member. Baby Sarai was born just five days after our wedding. I was so glad that Karine came on such a cold, long day. Their oldest daughter, Valentina, told me so excitedly, "I love your nose stud. When I get married, I'm going to get one too!" It was hilarious!

With the family: Marisol, Jonathan's mom, and his brother Esteban, and sister Betzi.

The toast, with a kiss!

With the Loyola Castro family: Patricio, Rosa (the woman who took over our office while Alejandra and I were out of the country!), Andres, Valentina, and Marcela.

With Jonathan's father, Omar.

These are my friends and co-workers, Alejandra and Leticia. I'm so glad they celebrated the day with us.

This is Tia Carmencita who made my wedding dress. She did a great job. It held up well for both weddings. But it didn't hold up too well with the rain. :(

Jonathan sang "Angél" to me during the meal. He had much better accompaniment this time and he wowed the crowd. I am amazed by his voice every time I hear him. He's such a romantic.

This is what I looked like while he sang to me.

Marcela and Valentina are two of our very good friends. They are so special to me, and have been a key part in Jonathan's and my relationship.

And finally, we cut the cake.