Last weekend was solid evidence (as if we needed more) that the most effective way for Tony and I to reconnect, fill our souls, and rest is to serve at Chispa. I'm not saying we don't like a good get away to an all inclusive to Mexico, but nothing refuels like spending a weekend in Tijuana. The majority of this refueling comes from being with Jeff and Betsy and Brad and Kim. We really missed Jason and Andrea, but they made the right choice staying home to celebrate Lily's graduation.
Tony and I drove down to Sand Diego after work on Wednesday and stayed at the lovely Half Moon Inn on Sanctuary Island. We got up early and went for a run on the pier and Tony went for a swim while I dealt with the drama at home. In Max's continued pattern of "middle finger behavior" he snuck his friends in after a senior party and Eliza woke up at 4:00am to kids sleeping all over the house. She kicked them out, called Grandma and Grandpa to come check in, and then went to work. I'm super grateful for her unflappable, problems solving gifts. She will be a better Mom than I was as a result.
After this sucker punch to the gut, we met Brad, Kim, Betsy and Jeff at Breakfast Republic (double yum). In minutes we felt safe and cared for and the good conversation that is a hallmark of our time with covenant friends began. We ran errands at Target and Home Depot, dropped our car off at the Americana and crossed the border. We had fun painting the neighbor's house, then spent a while at Chispa brainstorming ideas for service. We enjoyed the BEST shrimp tacos in Mexico at Ricardo's house. That night Tony reviewed the video footage at home and leaned into the hurt and betrayal until he shut down. It was hard to watch, but I was grateful to have everyone's support.
On Friday we visited the site of the next June project, called "the trapezoid house." 6 people were living together, sleeping in cars and 3-4 in a bed. Daisy, the mom was a beautiful strong woman who taught math from home. I'm so excited for the beautiful family to have a house. The FOMO of not going in June is killing us. After measuring the site for a house we visited Myrna who had had a miraculous surgery to remove an ovarian tumor in torsion the size of a grapefruit. It's a blessing and a miracle that Myrna is alive. She and her husband are so generous and kind.
On Saturday we spent the day painting at a "church," a little sanctuary in a very poor area where an older woman takes children in. Brad's wheels were spinning and he's already dreaming of a new floor and upgrades for the next group. After visiting with an attorney to help Brad and Kim open a NPO we drove to Roasarita for lobster, walks on the beach, and tortillas the size of compact cars. We had a wonderful time being together as couples and friends.
Sunday was our big day of service, but not the kind I ever anticipated. After church, Vero organized interviews and focus groups for the women in the neighborhood to explore what their needs were. Tony spent the time translating and I chimed in when I could. They filled out forms and gave good feedback. We were surprised with some of the answers and requests they gave, but hopefully will be able to be less "americanized" when the women's and children's center is built. Almost all the women want Zumba and healthy eating classes. I realized that the service we gave Sunday was to give unheard women a voice. They seemed to really appreciate having a man in a white shirt and tie listen intently, while everyone else took notes on every word they said. After 4 hours of translation Tony had to take a nap! That night Vero made us chicken mole and Elotes (street corn). What a meal to end on!
Monday we crossed the border in just over an hour and went straight back to Breakfast Republic. We hugged everyone goodbye and were back in St George by 8:00 that night. None of our hard stuff went away, but both Tony and I felt refreshed and reunited. Whatever happens at home, we have to remember the value of taking the time to give ourselves self care. We've been held hostage a long time by our kids. It felt good to refuse to negotiate with terrorists for a weekend.
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