Sounds like you had an ordeal just getting there this time. Praying everything goes smoothly this week!!
Shari
Comment by Shari Ilbrink — April 20, 2009 @ 7:42 am
Hi Karen
Glad that you finally made it safely! Thanks for all you efforts in coordinating things from this end on Saturday. I hear that you are taking care of Amy until the luggage arrives. Thank you!!! Keeping you in prayer
Deb
Karen, Glad you made it! YOu must have known the trick to no t losing luggage! Thans for all your help getting things set for them, and with the numerous times we talked before you left! Attempt to keep up on your sleep but thanks for setting this up. Have a great time!
Jason
Hey Karen,
We where so glad to hear that you finally made it yesterday. I can not wait to have updates from you.
You and the whole team will be in our prayers. God Bless and thank you for all you are doing there.
Hi Karena…glad you made it there…sounds like it was crazy…just FYI, I am in contact with someone about the second container…hopefully it will help….too bad Kirk doesn’t have a fast car to drive while your gone…as it turns out the car is with me in Florida…I am going to leave it here with some Florida friends while I fly to Peru tomorrow…Really wish I could have been in Guate with you and Mikie…be safe.
Pablo
Comment by Pablo Alejandro — April 20, 2009 @ 9:56 am
Hi my new amiga,
Wish I was there with you again. What an adventure you had getting there. So glad you got there on time for the clinic. Will be checking this blog daily and praying for you and the group.
Love, Nancy
Hey Karen -
Como se’ yama usted?
Donde esta la banya?
Take care of your self and all others……..
keep up all of your good work and please come home safe – your husband is counting on it…and so are the cats……
Hi everyone –
Thanks for all the great messages today!! It’s been quite an eventful 2 days… It sort of felt like The Amazing Race yesterday when I walked out of the airport & Heidi was there to greet me. “Karen, you are the 1st Team Member to arrive.” We waited about 2 hours for the GR/Detroit/Houston team to arrive, without luggage. Luckily, we were still able to make it to the base & be able to go the village/medical clinic last night. I worked in the clinic all night – it was a God moment & where I was supposed to be yesterday.
Today was great – organizing, packing, & starting to move!! Both places look so different.
Better sign off & get a few hours of sleep. Dan let us sleep in until 6:30am today Tomorrow morning, breakfast is at 6am….
Thanks again for all your messages & prayers!!
Karen,
what a crazy weekend! I’m glad all of you made it there safely. I love seeing the pictures of how the new base keeps changing. You’re in my prayers this week. Have a good one! And say hi to Dan, Hermano Jesus, Estuardo and Noemi for me, will you? I miss them all.
Comment by Brenda DeVries — April 21, 2009 @ 5:12 am
awesome pictures, its got to be kinda weird tearing the old base apart. keep working hard. thank you and the group for helping Guatemala. did they get the right container in with the windows and cabinets?
Comment by jack vanslooten — April 21, 2009 @ 5:20 am
hello dear. great pics! good to see you and the progress so far sounds outstanding. miss ya!
waiting out this cold weather until friday when it turns to summer.
ly
Just finished a quick lunch break – headed back out to pack up a van & make some more trips. The floors at the new base are being washed & waxed today by Noemi’s sisters while we put everything in the main gathering area.
Mike & I have made an executive decision that we get to the drive the motorcycles to the new base – who needs a $300 Harley class when I can learn hands-on in Guatemala?!?!? Watch for pictures tonight…
Karen,
Love the pictures! Keep them coming! Exciting day at the store – the power went out twice, pretty dark in there.
Be careful driving that motorcycle.
Love, Nancy
I can’t believe Dan would let my dad drive one of the bikes! That is scary! Tell him that I say good luck, and my advise is to not lay it down! and take the curves easy with the loose gravel!
Hi Karen,
So glad you all finally arrived safely! What an ordeal. It was nice of you to share your clothes.
Keep the pictures coming, Rich is hoping for another dump truck video! Wish we were there with you. Stay safe. Love, Sandi
Love the pics! You look happy and relaxed. Thought of you the last few days when I was up early with Bryce. I’m no more of a morning person than you are. Looks like you are having a fun and successful trip. Thinking and praying for you often…
Shari
Comment by Shari Ilbrink — April 21, 2009 @ 5:28 pm
Hey Karen, sounds like your having a hoot. I dig the Motorcycle story, makes me laugh. I’ll be praying for you and the team this week.
Hi Karen
Glad to hear you arrived safely. I understand when things go differently than what you think how they are going to go. But for whatever reason, God has plans for it to go that way. Also I am sure that all though your clothing line was a great hit I am sure your team enjoys their own clothing line a little more. I thought of you tonight, we went to a Michael W. Smith concert and when they talked about God being everywhere in the world and the impact we can have on the world…I know God is using you all greatly. Hope all your moving goes well and thanks for the pictures..they are awesome. Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 21, 2009 @ 11:00 pm
Hi everyone –
Another great day in paradise….hard to believe tomorrow is already Wednesday!
I just finished up today’s summary on the main page – check that out along with the pictures. Tomorrow we get to unload container #2 (YEAH!!) and also move some of the bigger items – more beds, appliances, etc.
Thanks for all the messages – it’s another highlight of the day
Off to bed – breakfast will be starting in about 6 hours…
Later,
Karen
Hi Karena…It sure is good news if container 2 has arrived…I will send an email to those that I know were trying to follow up on it….looks by the photos you found some Eucre players.
God bless
Pablo
Comment by Pablo Alejandro — April 21, 2009 @ 11:52 pm
Hi Karen,
Wow what wonderful pictures! Looks like you are having a great time. Can’t wait to hear your stories. We’re keeping you and the team in our thoughts and prayers. Have a good rest of the week.
Hi Karen,
I am so jealous!! I love the pictures and hearing the stories. It is so weird seeing the old base without its piles of stuff everywhere!!! You and the team are in my prayers. Kevin and I talk about all of you all the time, wondering what you are moving right now. Know that you are in God’s hands and there is no better place to be! Love you and can’t wait to hear about the God moment in the clinic!
Kristy
PS It is ALLLLLLL GOOOOOOD!!
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 22, 2009 @ 11:13 am
hey mahoney! hope you have had another great moving day. get it done! sweet!
miss ya!
Hey Karen, (alias motorcycle mama,)
HOw are you doing? The pictures and posts are great. Thanks for staying up late and doing that. Well answered prayers for the second container made you day much busier but a good one I’ll bet. How exciting!! Take care and have fun. I’m sure Amy is glad to have a good euchre partner!!
Deb
I’ve been praying for you today as you work another long day!! I am sure that your laugh as brought much joy to all! I could never have done it without you!
Have fun!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 22, 2009 @ 7:08 pm
God is soooo amazing…Thanks for sharing stories, photos and yourself!!
Like Kristy said – it’s all good & what a day to celebrate!!
Looking forward to tomorrow – not sure the bunk beds will be any more comfortable at the new base but it doesn’t matter anyway.
Need to get to bed – I’m very familiar with midnight but 5am is completely foreign to me….
Thanks for the messages – it’s so awesome to have all of you walking along side me this week!
Love,
Karen
k,
up early to feed the dogs. you’ve got about 2 more hours to go. so cool that you may sleep at the base tonight. you go and have yourself a great day. -(steve gilligan.)
love ya!
Hey Lovely Karen,
Is that you in one of the pictures with a DeWalt Cordless in your hands? Looks like you’ll be able to handle the little jobs around your house now. Glad all is going well. Praying for you and the team.
UBP
Karen it made my heart sing seeing that picture of you, Amy and Estuardo!! His smile is back!!! Please give him a great big hug from me!! I wish I was there. Too bad I am not much of a carpenter or I would try to make it happen next week. I think I would be a liability to Dan not much of a help with cabinets! Oh well, there will be a time for me to go! Keep up God’s work and know that we are praying for all of you everyday!!
Love you,
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 23, 2009 @ 7:32 am
Hi Karen….Thanks for all you have done to keep the rest of us updated, who wish we could have have been there with you to make it all happen.
Pablo
Comment by Pablo Alejandro — April 23, 2009 @ 9:37 am
hi karen, how are you? i finally got a chance to get to the computer and check up on you. it’s been a little rough the last few days. but, overall we are all adjusting well — just a few bumps along the way, and a few sleepless nights! ella says “hi aunt karen”!
i’m so excited about the work you guys are doing! i can so clearly remember dan showing us the land and talking about his vision for the new mission base. praise God that the dream is reality! tell dan and heidi hello from the three of us!
love you! take care of yourself…don’t go too crazy
dawn
Karen, It is so good to see you with my friend Estuardo. If you ever get the chance to be back there again you need to say hello to him for me. I hope that some of the espanol que aprendiste en mis clases te ayudo.
Dios te bendiga, Scott
Comment by Scott Wesseldyke — April 23, 2009 @ 1:21 pm
hi karen
been having a little trouble hope this goes through. thinking of you . love dad
great job pops! listening to the town hall for hope and it’s awesome! went out to the range tonight to coach slack-t on his swing. he’s the man…listening to the beach boys on his i-pod!
have a great night.
2 cats and a guy that miss you!
lml
Hi Karen
It was so strange to see the old base so empty. There are some good memories there. But at least the table is going.. which some day hopefully we can reinact our sorting meds with all us women and share that laughter. But you sure cant beat the beautiful view from the new base. Tell the truck drivers I am really impressed that all those trucks made it up the hill with all their loads still on the truck after that big hill. IMPRESSIVE…..Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 23, 2009 @ 10:08 pm
Hey Karen, the pic.s look great, almost like i was there, wish i was , been praying for you guys constantly, just got a call from Tim to see if i wanted to go back down next week. I want to so bad but work is 12 to 14 hour days right now with no let up, Tim is going, lucky dog. give Dan a hug for me, tell him ai love’em,well back to work, take care
Comment by Jack VanSlooten — April 24, 2009 @ 6:02 am
Hi Karen,
One last note before you leave for the states. What a wonderful week you have had and what a blessing you have been. You can really see how Jesus has been seen in you this week!
Prayers are going up for your last day and the trip home. Hope to see you soon.
Kathy
Karen,
Are you truly coming home already tomorrow? It seems like the week flew by. Hopefully someone else can keep the pictures coming. Thank you so much for all the work you put into this site. Many people appreciate seeing the pics since we can’t be there. Praying for your final day and safe trip home tomorrow. Love, Nancy
hello dear. great talking with you this morning. i told deej that i would have won a bundle in vegas…enjoy your extended stay! can’t wait to hear more from today. wonderful day here. i started your outdoor artwork!
miss you!
ly
Hi everyone!!
Mike, Carol, & I are loading up a few things at the old base while Estuardo has therapy. There’s a thunderstorm right now & the power keeps going out so can’t write much. But, I’m staying until Tuesday – YEAH!!!!! We have internet at the new base now so I’ll try to write again tonight – it was incredible to sleep at the new base last night.
More later. Love you tons Kirk!
Karen
Oh Karen, I am so thrilled for you that you get to stay for a few more days! I am sure you are such a blessing to Dan & Heidi!! I wish I could be there too. Who knows what God will bring? I’m glad the new base slept well. I’m sure that the bunks felt like a 5 Star resort after all the moving!!
Have another blessed day!!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 24, 2009 @ 6:43 pm
Hi Karen
Cant wait to hear the adventure with the motorcycles…in the rain. Hope you all slept well last night. You have got to be sore. Moving is hard work. I am glad you get to stay longer. I can tell that you have some goals that you still want to accomplish. Its so great that you have Kirk, he is so supportive of you and knows hows this is so close to your heart. I am also excited not only for what you are doing but that you are our eyes and ears….thanks we feel like we are a part of it all…..the singing and praise last night had to be a very inspiring night. Thinking of you tonight as you say goodbye to some team mates and pray for safe travels for them all. Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 24, 2009 @ 10:06 pm
Hi Karen, it is so crazy how addicted we have become once again to the internet and your words & pictures! However did we survive without it before? Maybe you can ask Senor Alan to help with the computer duties!?! He is so “handy” with them! Have fun and get lots done!
Take care mi amiga!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 25, 2009 @ 5:11 am
Hey Karen,
I heard you are staying longer, you lucky duck! We had a mini Guatemala reunion today. Some dear friends, Dave and Jean MacDonald lost their daughter to cancer a couple weeks ago and a benefit was held for her today in Allendale. Different booths were set up to sell things with some of the proceeds going for her medical expenses. Rich and Sandi were there with a Paradise Bound booth, Kristy VW was there with Tastefully Simple (I had a good talk with her). I also met Paul Lanning’s wife. We were all talking about the pics you’ve been posting. We love them! Hopefully the internet will be up soon, so we can hear and see some more. Keep up the good work. We’ll continue praying. Love, Nancy
Hi Karen,
What a great trip! I can’t wait to hear all the details. I love the two orange velvet chairs in the first batch of pictures. They remind me of my living room in the ’60’s. God bless you!
Love, Aunt Marge
hello dear.
great day for golf today if you are part duck. made it through 13 before the storms rolled in! nasty! hope you are having a great saturday. miss you! lylc!
Just checking in before bed. You have been in my thoughts and prayers all day today! It was so fun talking Guate with everyone today. I brought out album and they enjoyed reading and laughing at us crazy women! Take care and have a great night!
You’re in His Grip!!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 25, 2009 @ 7:21 pm
Hey Karen!
Going home was uneventfull for the most part. Much rain from Detroit to home(NO DIRT ROADS THO!)
Dyann was not feeling well, but now is home with family, in her own bed, and CLEAN!
I took a long HOT WET shower and deforrested! Feels soooo good!
Thanks for all the fun and friendship gained!
Praying for those who remain!
Jan
hey kml,
love you and hope you have had a good night. great day at church and hearing all of the laughs that you decided to extend your stay. no one was surprised and many blessings sent to you. my primary comment as to my well being was that i’m starting to talk to the cats too much…and that worries me.
see you on tuesday.
miss you like crazy.
Hi Karen
I have checked numerous times this weekend on any postings and was so happy to see the pictures. What alot of work you all do each day. The cabinets look really nice. And nice to see the kids settling in to their new home. Estrado looks good and looks like he is supervising Al quite well. I am sure he was glad to see him again as well. You have one more day. May you smile as you think of all the changes you have been a part of. You have been the hands and feet of Jesus this week not only in your work but in your uplifting spirit. We are happy you are there but will happy to see you home soon…Miss you. Kurt looked still smiling today and it still looks like he knows how to talk to humans. See you Sunday and it looks like you have a busy day that day to. Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 26, 2009 @ 7:48 pm
Hi everyone –
Thanks for the great messages! Can’t believe it’s Sunday already. Al & Jack have done a great job with all the cabinets & doors – it really makes a difference & is helping us get organized! Since most of the Dedication Team left on Saturday, Sue & I invited Deborah (Estuardo & Noemi’s daughter) to join us in the girl’s room for a slumber party. She loved her Princess bed sheets
It’s really starting to feel like a 5 star resort around here….well, maybe 4 1/2. We only have cold showers but from what I hear, they aren’t near as cold as Bendicion!
Off to bed soon, or maybe a game of Euchre or Hearts.
Thanks again for all your love & encouragement!
Karen
Good morning Motorcycle Mama!
It is so good to see the pictures! Thank you so much for taking the time to post them. I can’t wait to be down there at the new 5 star base! I love the pic of you and Mike on the bikes! WOW! I am so impressed. I don’t think I would ever be brave enough to face the Guate drivers!! I am POSITIVE that Dan would not be brave enough to allow me to drive one either!
Have a great last day! and I can’t wait to see you when you get home! What time do you get back? Take care and have a great day!!
It’s ALLLLLLL GOOOOOOOOOOOD!!!
Big hugs,
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 27, 2009 @ 7:04 am
Keep up the great work. Thanks for the committment and love you continue to give. You are a huge blessing! See ya soon! Great job!
Comment by kevin van wyhe — April 27, 2009 @ 8:26 am
I’m all clean and shaved. I think I can even remember a couple of the Spanish words I learned.
Have a good trip on the way home! You are an inspiration in your dedication to this ministry.
Hi Karen!
I wasn’t surprised to hear that you went back to help finish up. I hope that your team was able to get alot done. We didn’t have bible-study tonight. We are waiting for you, so that we can hear all your stories. Have a good trip home. I know that Kirk is more that ready to see you. Safe travels! Renee’
To my family, friends from church & the All Women Team, new friends from the Painting Team & the Move In Team, and even my high school Spanish teacher – thank you!!! Your messages were a wonderful source of encouragement & support each day.
Even though the days were long and often tiring, the trip was an incredible blessing to me & I look forward to sharing the stories with you. While it’s good to be home, part of me is still in Guatemala….
Adios & God Bless!
Karen
p.s. in case you’re wondering, Dan would NEVER let Mike & I ride the motorcycles to the new base…
Looks like you made it back safely, too. My flight was uneventful and I was right on time. Thanks again for posting the picture. It is great to go back and relive the fun.
I really enjoyed getting to know you. You are great to work, play cards and room with. Keep in touch and may God continue to bless you in all that you do.
Adios,
Sue
Comment by Sue Krommendyk — April 28, 2009 @ 7:54 pm
Hola amiga – I hear one container released and see a good medical clinic. Keeping the team in prayer!!
Comment by Judi — April 20, 2009 @ 7:10 am
Sounds like you had an ordeal just getting there this time. Praying everything goes smoothly this week!!
Shari
Comment by Shari Ilbrink — April 20, 2009 @ 7:42 am
Hi Karen
Glad that you finally made it safely! Thanks for all you efforts in coordinating things from this end on Saturday. I hear that you are taking care of Amy until the luggage arrives. Thank you!!! Keeping you in prayer
Deb
Comment by Deb — April 20, 2009 @ 8:12 am
kml,
have a great monday. we miss ya!
2 cats and me.
ly
Comment by Kirk — April 20, 2009 @ 8:16 am
Karen, Glad you made it! YOu must have known the trick to no t losing luggage! Thans for all your help getting things set for them, and with the numerous times we talked before you left! Attempt to keep up on your sleep but thanks for setting this up. Have a great time!
Jason
Comment by Jason Door — April 20, 2009 @ 8:36 am
Hey Karen,
We where so glad to hear that you finally made it yesterday. I can not wait to have updates from you.
You and the whole team will be in our prayers. God Bless and thank you for all you are doing there.
Sarah and Boys
Comment by Sarah — April 20, 2009 @ 9:09 am
Hi Karena…glad you made it there…sounds like it was crazy…just FYI, I am in contact with someone about the second container…hopefully it will help….too bad Kirk doesn’t have a fast car to drive while your gone…as it turns out the car is with me in Florida…I am going to leave it here with some Florida friends while I fly to Peru tomorrow…Really wish I could have been in Guate with you and Mikie…be safe.
Pablo
Comment by Pablo Alejandro — April 20, 2009 @ 9:56 am
Hi my new amiga,
Wish I was there with you again. What an adventure you had getting there. So glad you got there on time for the clinic. Will be checking this blog daily and praying for you and the group.
Love, Nancy
Comment by Nancy Dyke — April 20, 2009 @ 12:49 pm
Hey Karen -
Como se’ yama usted?
Donde esta la banya?
Take care of your self and all others……..
keep up all of your good work and please come home safe – your husband is counting on it…and so are the cats……
Comment by Lora — April 20, 2009 @ 6:10 pm
Hi everyone –
Tomorrow morning, breakfast is at 6am….
Thanks for all the great messages today!! It’s been quite an eventful 2 days… It sort of felt like The Amazing Race yesterday when I walked out of the airport & Heidi was there to greet me. “Karen, you are the 1st Team Member to arrive.” We waited about 2 hours for the GR/Detroit/Houston team to arrive, without luggage. Luckily, we were still able to make it to the base & be able to go the village/medical clinic last night. I worked in the clinic all night – it was a God moment & where I was supposed to be yesterday.
Today was great – organizing, packing, & starting to move!! Both places look so different.
Better sign off & get a few hours of sleep. Dan let us sleep in until 6:30am today
Thanks again for all your messages & prayers!!
Comment by Karen — April 20, 2009 @ 11:21 pm
Karen,
what a crazy weekend! I’m glad all of you made it there safely. I love seeing the pictures of how the new base keeps changing. You’re in my prayers this week. Have a good one! And say hi to Dan, Hermano Jesus, Estuardo and Noemi for me, will you? I miss them all.
Comment by Brenda DeVries — April 21, 2009 @ 5:12 am
awesome pictures, its got to be kinda weird tearing the old base apart. keep working hard. thank you and the group for helping Guatemala. did they get the right container in with the windows and cabinets?
Comment by jack vanslooten — April 21, 2009 @ 5:20 am
hello dear. great pics! good to see you and the progress so far sounds outstanding. miss ya!
waiting out this cold weather until friday when it turns to summer.
ly
Comment by Kirk — April 21, 2009 @ 9:11 am
Just finished a quick lunch break – headed back out to pack up a van & make some more trips. The floors at the new base are being washed & waxed today by Noemi’s sisters while we put everything in the main gathering area.
Mike & I have made an executive decision that we get to the drive the motorcycles to the new base – who needs a $300 Harley class when I can learn hands-on in Guatemala?!?!? Watch for pictures tonight…
Comment by Karen — April 21, 2009 @ 1:01 pm
Karen,
Love the pictures! Keep them coming! Exciting day at the store – the power went out twice, pretty dark in there.
Be careful driving that motorcycle.
Love, Nancy
Comment by Nancy Dyke — April 21, 2009 @ 3:21 pm
I can’t believe Dan would let my dad drive one of the bikes! That is scary! Tell him that I say good luck, and my advise is to not lay it down! and take the curves easy with the loose gravel!
Comment by Jason Door — April 21, 2009 @ 3:55 pm
post 14 comment…ha ha ha.
no moto for you! you either mike!
put them in the van/trailer and sit on them…that’s ok.
lml
Comment by Kirk — April 21, 2009 @ 4:28 pm
Hi Karen,
So glad you all finally arrived safely! What an ordeal. It was nice of you to share your clothes.
Keep the pictures coming, Rich is hoping for another dump truck video! Wish we were there with you. Stay safe. Love, Sandi
Comment by Sandi Joslyn — April 21, 2009 @ 5:02 pm
Love the pics! You look happy and relaxed. Thought of you the last few days when I was up early with Bryce. I’m no more of a morning person than you are.
Looks like you are having a fun and successful trip. Thinking and praying for you often…
Shari
Comment by Shari Ilbrink — April 21, 2009 @ 5:28 pm
Hey Karen, sounds like your having a hoot. I dig the Motorcycle story, makes me laugh. I’ll be praying for you and the team this week.
Comment by Paul L — April 21, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
Hi Karen
Glad to hear you arrived safely. I understand when things go differently than what you think how they are going to go. But for whatever reason, God has plans for it to go that way. Also I am sure that all though your clothing line was a great hit I am sure your team enjoys their own clothing line a little more. I thought of you tonight, we went to a Michael W. Smith concert and when they talked about God being everywhere in the world and the impact we can have on the world…I know God is using you all greatly. Hope all your moving goes well and thanks for the pictures..they are awesome. Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 21, 2009 @ 11:00 pm
Hi everyone –
Another great day in paradise….hard to believe tomorrow is already Wednesday!
I just finished up today’s summary on the main page – check that out along with the pictures. Tomorrow we get to unload container #2 (YEAH!!) and also move some of the bigger items – more beds, appliances, etc.
Thanks for all the messages – it’s another highlight of the day
Off to bed – breakfast will be starting in about 6 hours…
Later,
Karen
Comment by Karen — April 21, 2009 @ 11:41 pm
Hi Karena…It sure is good news if container 2 has arrived…I will send an email to those that I know were trying to follow up on it….looks by the photos you found some Eucre players.
God bless
Pablo
Comment by Pablo Alejandro — April 21, 2009 @ 11:52 pm
Hi Karen,
Wow what wonderful pictures! Looks like you are having a great time. Can’t wait to hear your stories. We’re keeping you and the team in our thoughts and prayers. Have a good rest of the week.
Greg and Kathy
Comment by Kathy Door — April 22, 2009 @ 5:52 am
Hi Karen,
I am so jealous!! I love the pictures and hearing the stories. It is so weird seeing the old base without its piles of stuff everywhere!!! You and the team are in my prayers. Kevin and I talk about all of you all the time, wondering what you are moving right now. Know that you are in God’s hands and there is no better place to be! Love you and can’t wait to hear about the God moment in the clinic!
Kristy
PS It is ALLLLLLL GOOOOOOD!!
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 22, 2009 @ 11:13 am
hey mahoney! hope you have had another great moving day. get it done! sweet!
miss ya!
Comment by Kirk — April 22, 2009 @ 1:19 pm
Hey Karen, (alias motorcycle mama,)
HOw are you doing? The pictures and posts are great. Thanks for staying up late and doing that. Well answered prayers for the second container made you day much busier but a good one I’ll bet. How exciting!! Take care and have fun. I’m sure Amy is glad to have a good euchre partner!!
Deb
Comment by Deb — April 22, 2009 @ 6:52 pm
I’ve been praying for you today as you work another long day!! I am sure that your laugh as brought much joy to all! I could never have done it without you!
Have fun!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 22, 2009 @ 7:08 pm
God is soooo amazing…Thanks for sharing stories, photos and yourself!!
Comment by Judi — April 22, 2009 @ 9:50 pm
Like Kristy said – it’s all good & what a day to celebrate!!
Looking forward to tomorrow – not sure the bunk beds will be any more comfortable at the new base but it doesn’t matter anyway.
Need to get to bed – I’m very familiar with midnight but 5am is completely foreign to me….
Thanks for the messages – it’s so awesome to have all of you walking along side me this week!
Love,
Karen
Comment by Karen — April 23, 2009 @ 12:05 am
p.s. Slack T – the doors are awesome & everything traveled well!
Muchas Gracias
Comment by Karen — April 23, 2009 @ 12:07 am
k,
up early to feed the dogs. you’ve got about 2 more hours to go. so cool that you may sleep at the base tonight. you go and have yourself a great day. -(steve gilligan.)
love ya!
Comment by Kirk — April 23, 2009 @ 3:09 am
Hey Lovely Karen,
Is that you in one of the pictures with a DeWalt Cordless in your hands? Looks like you’ll be able to handle the little jobs around your house now. Glad all is going well. Praying for you and the team.
UBP
Comment by UglyRaj — April 23, 2009 @ 6:57 am
Karen it made my heart sing seeing that picture of you, Amy and Estuardo!! His smile is back!!! Please give him a great big hug from me!! I wish I was there. Too bad I am not much of a carpenter or I would try to make it happen next week. I think I would be a liability to Dan not much of a help with cabinets!
Oh well, there will be a time for me to go! Keep up God’s work and know that we are praying for all of you everyday!!
Love you,
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 23, 2009 @ 7:32 am
Hi Karen….Thanks for all you have done to keep the rest of us updated, who wish we could have have been there with you to make it all happen.
Pablo
Comment by Pablo Alejandro — April 23, 2009 @ 9:37 am
hi karen, how are you? i finally got a chance to get to the computer and check up on you. it’s been a little rough the last few days. but, overall we are all adjusting well — just a few bumps along the way, and a few sleepless nights!
ella says “hi aunt karen”!
i’m so excited about the work you guys are doing! i can so clearly remember dan showing us the land and talking about his vision for the new mission base. praise God that the dream is reality! tell dan and heidi hello from the three of us!
love you! take care of yourself…don’t go too crazy
dawn
Comment by dawn hogue — April 23, 2009 @ 9:53 am
Karen, It is so good to see you with my friend Estuardo. If you ever get the chance to be back there again you need to say hello to him for me. I hope that some of the espanol que aprendiste en mis clases te ayudo.
Dios te bendiga, Scott
Comment by Scott Wesseldyke — April 23, 2009 @ 1:21 pm
hi karen
been having a little trouble hope this goes through. thinking of you . love dad
Comment by jim — April 23, 2009 @ 6:01 pm
great job pops! listening to the town hall for hope and it’s awesome! went out to the range tonight to coach slack-t on his swing. he’s the man…listening to the beach boys on his i-pod!
have a great night.
2 cats and a guy that miss you!
lml
Comment by kirk — April 23, 2009 @ 6:35 pm
Hi Karen
It was so strange to see the old base so empty. There are some good memories there. But at least the table is going.. which some day hopefully we can reinact our sorting meds with all us women and share that laughter. But you sure cant beat the beautiful view from the new base. Tell the truck drivers I am really impressed that all those trucks made it up the hill with all their loads still on the truck after that big hill. IMPRESSIVE…..Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 23, 2009 @ 10:08 pm
Hey Karen, the pic.s look great, almost like i was there, wish i was , been praying for you guys constantly, just got a call from Tim to see if i wanted to go back down next week. I want to so bad but work is 12 to 14 hour days right now with no let up, Tim is going, lucky dog. give Dan a hug for me, tell him ai love’em,well back to work, take care
Comment by Jack VanSlooten — April 24, 2009 @ 6:02 am
Hi Karen,
One last note before you leave for the states. What a wonderful week you have had and what a blessing you have been. You can really see how Jesus has been seen in you this week!
Prayers are going up for your last day and the trip home. Hope to see you soon.
Kathy
Comment by Kathy Door — April 24, 2009 @ 6:06 am
Karen,
Are you truly coming home already tomorrow? It seems like the week flew by. Hopefully someone else can keep the pictures coming. Thank you so much for all the work you put into this site. Many people appreciate seeing the pics since we can’t be there. Praying for your final day and safe trip home tomorrow. Love, Nancy
Comment by Nancy Dyke — April 24, 2009 @ 10:28 am
Karen
I am praying for you. Sounds like an adventurous week. I can’t wait to hear more. You are an inspiration to give of yourself as you do!
Renee
Comment by Renee L — April 24, 2009 @ 2:05 pm
hello dear. great talking with you this morning. i told deej that i would have won a bundle in vegas…enjoy your extended stay! can’t wait to hear more from today. wonderful day here. i started your outdoor artwork!
miss you!
ly
Comment by kirk — April 24, 2009 @ 4:09 pm
Hi everyone!!
Mike, Carol, & I are loading up a few things at the old base while Estuardo has therapy. There’s a thunderstorm right now & the power keeps going out so can’t write much. But, I’m staying until Tuesday – YEAH!!!!! We have internet at the new base now so I’ll try to write again tonight – it was incredible to sleep at the new base last night.
More later. Love you tons Kirk!
Karen
Comment by Karen — April 24, 2009 @ 6:03 pm
p.s. it should be very interesting riding the motorcycles to the new base in the rain storm….
Comment by Karen — April 24, 2009 @ 6:04 pm
Oh Karen, I am so thrilled for you that you get to stay for a few more days! I am sure you are such a blessing to Dan & Heidi!!
I wish I could be there too. Who knows what God will bring? I’m glad the new base slept well. I’m sure that the bunks felt like a 5 Star resort after all the moving!!
Have another blessed day!!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 24, 2009 @ 6:43 pm
Hi Karen
Cant wait to hear the adventure with the motorcycles…in the rain. Hope you all slept well last night. You have got to be sore. Moving is hard work. I am glad you get to stay longer. I can tell that you have some goals that you still want to accomplish. Its so great that you have Kirk, he is so supportive of you and knows hows this is so close to your heart. I am also excited not only for what you are doing but that you are our eyes and ears….thanks we feel like we are a part of it all…..the singing and praise last night had to be a very inspiring night. Thinking of you tonight as you say goodbye to some team mates and pray for safe travels for them all. Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 24, 2009 @ 10:06 pm
Hi Karen, it is so crazy how addicted we have become once again to the internet and your words & pictures! However did we survive without it before?
Maybe you can ask Senor Alan to help with the computer duties!?! He is so “handy” with them! 
Have fun and get lots done!
Take care mi amiga!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 25, 2009 @ 5:11 am
Hey Karen,
I heard you are staying longer, you lucky duck! We had a mini Guatemala reunion today. Some dear friends, Dave and Jean MacDonald lost their daughter to cancer a couple weeks ago and a benefit was held for her today in Allendale. Different booths were set up to sell things with some of the proceeds going for her medical expenses. Rich and Sandi were there with a Paradise Bound booth, Kristy VW was there with Tastefully Simple (I had a good talk with her). I also met Paul Lanning’s wife. We were all talking about the pics you’ve been posting. We love them! Hopefully the internet will be up soon, so we can hear and see some more. Keep up the good work. We’ll continue praying. Love, Nancy
Comment by Nancy Dyke — April 25, 2009 @ 1:24 pm
Hi Karen,
What a great trip! I can’t wait to hear all the details. I love the two orange velvet chairs in the first batch of pictures. They remind me of my living room in the ’60’s. God bless you!
Love, Aunt Marge
Comment by Marge — April 25, 2009 @ 1:30 pm
hello dear.
great day for golf today if you are part duck. made it through 13 before the storms rolled in! nasty! hope you are having a great saturday. miss you! lylc!
Comment by kirk — April 25, 2009 @ 2:53 pm
Just checking in before bed. You have been in my thoughts and prayers all day today! It was so fun talking Guate with everyone today. I brought out album and they enjoyed reading and laughing at us crazy women! Take care and have a great night!
You’re in His Grip!!
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 25, 2009 @ 7:21 pm
Hey Karen!
Going home was uneventfull for the most part. Much rain from Detroit to home(NO DIRT ROADS THO!)
Dyann was not feeling well, but now is home with family, in her own bed, and CLEAN!
I took a long HOT WET shower and deforrested! Feels soooo good!
Thanks for all the fun and friendship gained!
Praying for those who remain!
Jan
Comment by Jan Rotman — April 25, 2009 @ 8:56 pm
hey kml,
love you and hope you have had a good night. great day at church and hearing all of the laughs that you decided to extend your stay. no one was surprised and many blessings sent to you. my primary comment as to my well being was that i’m starting to talk to the cats too much…and that worries me.
see you on tuesday.
miss you like crazy.
Comment by kirk — April 26, 2009 @ 7:16 pm
Hi Karen
I have checked numerous times this weekend on any postings and was so happy to see the pictures. What alot of work you all do each day. The cabinets look really nice. And nice to see the kids settling in to their new home. Estrado looks good and looks like he is supervising Al quite well. I am sure he was glad to see him again as well. You have one more day. May you smile as you think of all the changes you have been a part of. You have been the hands and feet of Jesus this week not only in your work but in your uplifting spirit. We are happy you are there but will happy to see you home soon…Miss you. Kurt looked still smiling today and it still looks like he knows how to talk to humans. See you Sunday and it looks like you have a busy day that day to. Sya
Comment by Sya Vogelzang — April 26, 2009 @ 7:48 pm
Hi everyone –
Thanks for the great messages! Can’t believe it’s Sunday already. Al & Jack have done a great job with all the cabinets & doors – it really makes a difference & is helping us get organized! Since most of the Dedication Team left on Saturday, Sue & I invited Deborah (Estuardo & Noemi’s daughter) to join us in the girl’s room for a slumber party. She loved her Princess bed sheets
It’s really starting to feel like a 5 star resort around here….well, maybe 4 1/2. We only have cold showers but from what I hear, they aren’t near as cold as Bendicion!
Off to bed soon, or maybe a game of Euchre or Hearts.
Thanks again for all your love & encouragement!
Karen
Comment by Karen — April 26, 2009 @ 8:37 pm
Karen-
I feel like I haven’t seen you in ages! Miss ya! But so happy you’re in Guatemala making a difference. I’ll be praying for safe travels home.
Love, Dawn
Comment by Dawn W — April 27, 2009 @ 6:24 am
Good morning Motorcycle Mama!
I love the pic of you and Mike on the bikes! WOW! I am so impressed. I don’t think I would ever be brave enough to face the Guate drivers!! I am POSITIVE that Dan would not be brave enough to allow me to drive one either! 
It is so good to see the pictures! Thank you so much for taking the time to post them. I can’t wait to be down there at the new 5 star base!
Have a great last day! and I can’t wait to see you when you get home! What time do you get back? Take care and have a great day!!
It’s ALLLLLLL GOOOOOOOOOOOD!!!
Big hugs,
Kristy
Comment by Kristy Van Wyhe — April 27, 2009 @ 7:04 am
Keep up the great work. Thanks for the committment and love you continue to give. You are a huge blessing! See ya soon! Great job!
Comment by kevin van wyhe — April 27, 2009 @ 8:26 am
I’m all clean and shaved. I think I can even remember a couple of the Spanish words I learned.
Have a good trip on the way home! You are an inspiration in your dedication to this ministry.
Comment by John — April 27, 2009 @ 2:34 pm
hi karen
kirk says you are alittle under the weather, take good care of yourself we worry home soon .
ithink kirk said tomorrow. take care dad
Comment by jim — April 27, 2009 @ 2:45 pm
Hi Karen!
I wasn’t surprised to hear that you went back to help finish up. I hope that your team was able to get alot done. We didn’t have bible-study tonight. We are waiting for you, so that we can hear all your stories. Have a good trip home. I know that Kirk is more that ready to see you. Safe travels! Renee’
Comment by Renee — April 27, 2009 @ 5:26 pm
hello dear,
come on home. can’t wait to see you in less than 24.
lywamh.
Comment by kirk — April 27, 2009 @ 6:14 pm
Karen,
We are praying for a safe trip home tomorrow.
Comment by Mike Door — April 27, 2009 @ 6:50 pm
Wow!!
To my family, friends from church & the All Women Team, new friends from the Painting Team & the Move In Team, and even my high school Spanish teacher – thank you!!! Your messages were a wonderful source of encouragement & support each day.
Even though the days were long and often tiring, the trip was an incredible blessing to me & I look forward to sharing the stories with you. While it’s good to be home, part of me is still in Guatemala….
Adios & God Bless!
Karen
p.s. in case you’re wondering, Dan would NEVER let Mike & I ride the motorcycles to the new base…
Comment by Karen — April 28, 2009 @ 7:51 pm
Hi Karen,
Looks like you made it back safely, too. My flight was uneventful and I was right on time. Thanks again for posting the picture. It is great to go back and relive the fun.
I really enjoyed getting to know you. You are great to work, play cards and room with. Keep in touch and may God continue to bless you in all that you do.
Adios,
Sue
Comment by Sue Krommendyk — April 28, 2009 @ 7:54 pm