wha'sup with me?

I have been a little quiet on updates from life here in Buenos Aires since returning over a month ago. January was a great month getting back into the summer rhythm of life and ministry here. Summertime is a different pace around here. Lots of people are coming and going on vacation, while others staying in city take it a little slower, enjoying summertime sun and fun. Thankfully, the summer has not been too hot and humid (Yet! Summer isn’t over.). Here are just a few updates on the latest happenings.

• I begin my intensive four-week Spanish course on Monday. I took a placement test this past week and tested at an intermediate level (which seems a little generous, but I’ll take it). I am hopeful this course will be just what I need in language acquisition. I go 5 mornings a week for 3 hours and I plan to spend a few hours studying each day, as well. There are 14 students in each class from all over the world with different first languages. I’ll let you know the make-up of my class.
  

• Due to travel schedules, vacations, and other factors, I have been going to the train station (Retiro) to spend time with the youth by myself a lot these past several weeks. While this is not ideal and not something for the long-term, I think these times have solidified some of my relationships with our friends. At first they would always greet me and ask with some surprise, “solo?” And they still always ask, “Walter?” The groups have been a little smaller and low key, which has provided a more “tranquilo” environment to be with the kids and youth. One day a group of kids went through the list of about 7-8 of our staff and partners who regularly spend time with them, asking where they have been. I responded with explanations on who was where, etc.
  
  Please pray for the kids and youth, as our presence with them will be even less in February. Several staff and partners are still out of town, while Jeremiah and I will be focusing on more intensive language study. I plan to go to the station at least once a week to connect with the kids. In March we will start back up “Encuentros,” our twice a month overnight and full-day at the church with 4-6 of the youth.

• I’m excited! Visitors are coming, visitors are coming! Thanks to frequent flyer miles. My mom and sister will come in May for a visit. And some good friends from Omaha will visit in August. We also have some a few South American WMF friends coming to visit after Easter. It will be fun to share my life here with family and friends!
  

Well, that seems like enough for now. It is Saturday morning and the rest of the day is calling! Thanks for checking in! (If there is still anyone out there on my blogsphere?)