Arrival at the Finca

Palm trees towering above me, the sound of the ocean tumbling onto shore, hibiscus juice and pastelitos, and dozens of pairs of big brown eyes staring at me. Arriving at the Finca was like being pelted to death by a million little gifts - beautiful and overwhelming. This little welcome party started immediately getting out of the car, as did the swarm of the mosquitoes. Us three new missionaries introduced ourselves in broken Spanish to the Finca family, then the kids resumed their play. It has been almost two weeks since that day, and my time has been filled with cooking, beach visits, orientation talks, chores, prayer, bored games, and lots and lots of learning. So much learning that I have decided to impart my wisdom on to anyone who finds themselves victims subject to reading this blog. Here is my summary of my first weeks of Honduran life as survival tips I have learned in my time here.

1. If you aren't damp, you're probably not in Honduras. I don't believe an inch of my body has been dry since the moment I stepped of the bus to go through Customs at the border.

2. The adjustment period a stomach goes as it processes new Honduran food and water is lovingly referred to as the Gringo Tax. I have been paying this tax dutifully, and apparently, I am in the highest tax bracket.

3. The rural dialect of Spanish spoken here pays no mind to using consonants, and the locals take a little too much delight in my blank stare when they ask me a question.

4. The kids here love quickly and love well. They always seem happy to see me, even though I don't have much to offer in conversation or on the soccer field.

5. If Ya (name changed for privacy) gently holds your face, he's not being sweet - he's about the poke you in the eyes.

6. Sunscreen rules apply differently here. Let's just say, I am not in Kansas anymore, and my skin is a very different color now.

7. The abuelitas are correct - Coca Cola does have medicinal healing properties. Don't fact check me on that.

8. The water and electricity frequently go out, but don't be mistaken - a candle lit bucket shower is the height of luxury.

9. Time set aside for personal prayer is essential - especially because its impossible to focus when the kids are in the chapel, as well as lizards, owls, and rabbits.

10. The other missionaries here are some of the most welcoming, interesting, and saintly people I've ever met.