We returned from our 5 month adventure in Honduras at the end of 2013 not knowing what the 2014 year would bring. Now as we enter into 2015, we reflect on the past 12 months in amazement and gratitude.
WORK: Marvin
began applying to jobs in the Chattanooga area not knowing what an
incredible opportunity awaited him. He began work for JDH roofing
company in January and by June began working in their metal shop as a
fabricator. It has been a joy for him to work for such a wonderful
company with great leadership. I was also blessed with a great
opportunity to work for a few months at Program for All-inclusive Care
for the Elderly (PACE) before having the baby. I worked directly with my
mom and learned so much about assessment, documentation, coordinating
care, and communication. I am now working part time teaching Spanish to
high school students living at Bethel Bible Village. Their mission is to
"build Christ-centered lives, one child at a time." I am so grateful to
be a part of the work they are doing.
HOME: Upon
our return to the United States, we planned to live temporarily with my
parents. That temporary arrangement became more permanent as time went
on. They have blessed us with a place to live and many nights of
babysitting. We try to show our appreciation through home cooked meals,
yard work, and fix-up projects around the house. What a joy it is to see
them every day and watch Thomas's love for them grow.
FAMILY: We
found out I was pregnant in 2012 and joyfully awaited the arrival of
our first son. Thomas Orlando Ramos was born on May 15, 2014. I knew
right away that he admired his daddy since he chose to arrive on
Marvin's birthday. We have enjoyed seeing him grow and learn each day.
We even had the joy of taking him to visit family and friends in
Honduras in October. Sadly, in November we received news of Marvin's
older brother passing away in Honduras. His family misses Erlin
immensely and is struggling to live life without him. We enjoyed
celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas with many loving family members
nearby. It amazes me to think that God came to earth and began life as a
helpless baby only to give his own life years later so that we could live in relationship with Him.
THE NEW YEAR: We
are excited about the arrival of 3 new family members- Megan and Ethan
are having a baby girl in January, Marvin's sister has a baby boy due in
March, and Ben and Kat are expecting a baby girl in April. We look
forward to helping with outreach opportunities at Scenic City Church, a
new church plant in Chattanooga that we have enjoyed becoming a part of.
Marvin is excited to do more metal work with JDH, and I hope to
continue teaching Spanish at Bethel for the Spring semester. Every day
with Thomas is a blessing and although we do not know what this new year will bring, we do know that we will enjoy each moment we have together!May you love others, serve God, and experience joy in the year to come!
