Belizean Beauty

I am so grateful for the glimpses of God's glory in our yard here in Belize.

Banana Pancakes

When I saw that my friend Kay posted these gluten free pancakes on Facebook I knew I'd be giving them a try!  This recipe is based on the modifications Kay and I each made when we tested the pancakes.

Banana Pancakes
1 ripe banana
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
A pinch of salt

Mash the banana up well. Add in eggs and blend. Add salt and vanilla. Lightly oil or spray your pan and fry on low to medium heat for about a minute or so on each side.

Enjoy!

Bargain hunting

As Janina, Sophie, and I were shopping for wedding supplies on Laxmi Road I could not help but notice all the apartments above the shops.  I'm sure living above your store helps keep the prices low!

My store!

Even though I'm 50 years old, my mother, grandmother, and especially my Auntie Martha still call me Pebbles.

 And of course, I will always answer them!

Even to your old age...

Her face drew me in...numerous lines reminiscent of wave after wave on the Arabian sea. Concerned eyes as intense as the sun.  I find unexpected beauty in her presence.  She knows her products well.  She is ready to discuss each one and show off its features.  Her pots are on the ground, close to the street, everything is dusty, grimy, but she wipes them down carefully to show them off for prospective buyers.  Hers is the first stall we go to and the last one we visit as we look for items needed for the wedding.  Stooped over, with her saree tucked in to form a pair of pants of some sort, she bends low to wrap the pots for us and we are grateful.  None of her wares are very expensive.  One pot sells for 6 rupees (about 9 cents).  We leave with three small pots. The next day we return for 75 more.  I wonder how many more years she will be on the side of the road, bent low, selling a pot or two at a time?

Even to your old age and gray hairs
I am He, I am He who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you
I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
Isaiah 46:4

Tea for three

A few weeks back Spencer, Meesha, and I did a bit of sightseeing in Mumbai. After visiting the India Gate we took a look inside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. An exquisite five star hotel favored by numerous dignitaries and wealthy people for many years.  

I am so grateful that we took the opportunity to have tea at one of their many restaurants.  It was such a lovely time that I will fondly cherish in my heart.  For no more than the cost of a Starbucks coffees we were treated royally with excellent service, slowly savored our tea, and shared this precious time together!

Counting down the days...

It's almost time to get all glammed up in the saree that Meesha gave me to wear at the wedding! 

Transporting goods...

Whether it's by truck, car, motorbike,  or bicycle; vendors have to get their goods from here to there!

Upcoming festival...

Ganesh idols are for sale here all along the streets.  A 10 day festival is coming and we've been told it's going to get loud!

third times a charm...

I got my ears pierced for the third time today...a perfect souvenir from India!

Ask, seek, knock...

 

I am so grateful for the doors God has opened for us! 

Tastes of home...

Tonight is Mexican food night for Tom and I.  I am making ceviche and some tacos.  We found a store that sells international products not far from our flat and I was thrilled to see things from the U.S. and Belize on the shelves!

Make way for goats...

We walked in the street because the sidewalk was occupied...

People in Pune...

Are you a people watcher? I am! I think God's creations are fascinating. And each time we travel to a new place we get to see more of His handiwork in action. These are just a few of the photos I took on our bus tour of Pune.  If you are friends with me on Facebook you can see the full album by clicking HERE.  

the family vehicle...

I've seen families riding on motorcycles in Belize and have wanted to get a photo. One of our neighbors picks his kids up from school on his motorcycle and it's such a loving sight. This photo is a bit blurry but as you can see they do it here in India too!  I am always amazed at how people make what they have work for their families.  Most of the families I've seen ride in the order this family is riding...the littlest one in the front and the mom in the back.  And if mom is wearing a saree then she rides side saddle.

Since we've been here I've ridden on the back of the bike several times.  The first time I was excited but scared.  Each time I go out with someone I feel more comfortable and not as exposed as I did that first time. I can see that there is a rhythm to the flow of traffic here and have noticed that the motorbikes are better able to weave in and out of the congested traffic much easier than cars can.  I still don't think I would do well driving here...but I used to say that about the freeways in California and somehow I overcame that fear!

Peace Be With You...

I have been thinking about peace a lot today.  This past week I've heard about surgeries, illnesses, deaths of family members, job losses, parents with prodigal children...and so on.  There is a great need for peace in our minds, hearts, families, businesses, churches, cities, and countries.  

May you feel His presence throughout your day.  

And no matter what you are going through...

May you hear Him say, "Peace be with you!" 

all who are thirsty...

There is a first time for everything...and Sunday after church was the first time I'd ever seen a cow drink from a water fountain!

going for a ride...

We saw these carriages the other day...

I heard that some people use them for transporting the bridal party to the wedding! 

I haven't seen a procession yet.  It would be exciting if we get to witness one before we leave.  I've heard that the groom comes to pick up the bride riding on a white horse...I would love to see that!

a bit of Hallmark...

Found a store with a great selection of Hallmark cards in the neighborhood  the other day!

Acts 19:26

Not far from the flat we are staying in is a temple to the Hindu god Ganesh.  You can read more about him by clicking here.  There are many gods worshiped here in India and around the world.    

This photo was taken with my Galaxy tablet as we were walking home late one evening...

When I think of all the things that Christ has helped us through I cannot help but desire that others get to experience His overwhelming love and care.  Each time I pass this temple I pray for those who still do not know Him as the One True God.