Thursday, September 25, 2008

My Ecuador Family

I just got back from Ecuador two days ago. I went for five whole days... not long, I know, but, I was missing my little family down there, so I took a quick trip down to check on them. They're doing great and here are some photos so you can see the faces of the Ecuadorians who have my heart. From left to right: Jean Carlos (11), Dany Ruben (8), and Abrahim (12). In this next photo you see the mom, Liliam. She and I have been close friends since I was a missionary in Ecuador. We're the same age, so when I was a missionary she helped us out a lot and we've been in touch ever since and that's been about 20 years!!! When I was a missionary, her mom cooked lunch for us everyday so I got to know the family pretty well. After my mission, Liliam eventually got married and had these three wonderful boys, but then ended up divorced after a long spell of tragic abuse. Fortunately, she's been able to create a stable home for the boys and is truly one of the most amazing people I know.


While I was there we spent a couple of days at their house fixing some plumbing problems and just catching up with each other. Then, the five of us went to a beach resort town for three days and nights and had a little vacation together. It was a blast and I miss them terribly, but I'm going back to spend Christmas with them!





5 comments:

ELI said...

lucky! Can I come?

The Bell Family said...

That is awesome that you have kept in touch and are so close to this family. Just as you feel lucky to have them, I'm sure they feel so lucky to have you! As for going back at Christmas, I'm afraid you are going to have to get clearance from some family members - and that goes for any trip from now on (unless I am invited).....just kidding!
You are the best!

Celeste said...

Awe -- Looks like a GREAT family! That beach is gorgeous! I wanna see some pics of you too!!! hopefully in a speedo on the beach...wait...nevermind!! HA HA HA HA!!! Love ya!!

Anonymous said...

Adorable kids! Those Ecua cuties always could steal your heart!! I have more pictures of kids from the mission - - pictures of pigs came in second I think. I think it's the dark eyes, great smile and happy no matter what their circumstances attitude that does it! I haven't kept in touch with anyone but every once in a while have the strong urge to go back. Love ya!
Nancy

Anonymous said...

Wow... found your blog from FaceBook. Elder Youngberg here, your comp from Ventanas. It is so great to see pictures of Liliam and to know that they are well. I'm so jealous that you've been able to keep up those relationships. Ventanas (and the Blums) hold some of my favorite mission memories!