(Crystal shares an awesome story!)
At the top of the mountain was their home. Maria and her husband were so excited to show us where they lived and how they lived.
They live in a stick hut with mud floors there kitchen is open to outside and she cooks over an open fire pit/oven. They make their living by farming bananas, plantanos, pineapple, and cocoa. They also had chickens, ducks and two pigs.
She walked us around the property explaining various aspects of their life. It was very hot walking around. Then on the way back she took us by way of their watering hole - where they go everyday to get clean water. The hike down to the watering hole was IN the jungle. We followed a small creek down and had to make sure we stayed out if the way of the leaf cutter ants and looked out for snakes and other wildlife.
Her watering hole was small and I was amazed that she made this trek multiple times per day with a five gallon bucket to get water. Makes me grateful that I can turn on a faucet.
Back at her house she invited us in for chocolate (a drink - fresh cocoa, sugar and hot water) and freshly made rolls (baked perfectly and SO good). She offered everyone a mug and I was feeling guilty because I knew she'd have to wash every single one if those mugs with water she had to go fetch. But she was so gracious I couldn't say no.
Then she and her husband gave us their testimonies. They have really, in the last year, surrendered their lives to Christ. They both attend church regularly and are excited to be daily learning more and more about Him. In fact, on our last trip here the husband came to church - it was his first time ever coming to church -- and he was in rough shape. It was such a transformation to see him this time. Truly he is a new creation -- so excited for life and to share God's word with others.
And because I am writing this Tuesday afternoon I am happy to report we all made it down the mountain and no one is sick because of the drink or bread (yes, I thought of that).
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