Cross from Nate Saint house

Some of you have have heard the names of Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Roger Youderin and Peter Fleming.  These are names that just over 50 years ago rocked the Christian and secular worlds alike. In 1956 these five American men were killed by the very people, the Auca Indians,  that they were trying to reach with the gospel of Christ. This group of young men gave thier lives so that the Auca would have the opportunity to know Christ on a personal level.  They have become well-known throughout the world, and a few years back, their story was even told in Hollywood through the film End of the Spear.  Many people have great respect for these men and their families, and rightly so. For this group of people were used by God in a way that would forever change the mission field and Ecuador its self. Even after the death of their husbands and fathers of their children, the families continued serving God, in Quito, Ed's wife, Marilou McCully set up a school for missionary children.  Barbara Youderin went to work with another Missionary, Frank Downs, who worked with the Jivaro Indians of eastern Ecuador.  Elisabeth Elliot continued to work with the Aucas with Rachel Saint (Nate's sister) for several years, had a radio program and wrote several books.

• It has been stated, "The deaths of these men, a personal tragedy for their families, has become a world-wide testimony of faith in Christ and dedication to the work of God, which is much, much bigger than the conversion of a jungle tribe to Christianity." ---http://www.christianheroes.com/people/christian_heroes_jim_elliot.asp

The Waorani (also known as Auishiri, Huao, Huaorani, Sabela, Waodani) people formerly named Auca Indians, have one of the most dramatic and exstreme changes in their lifestyle as a testement to the impact of the way that Christ's love can transform us.  The term Auca is actually the name the Quichua gave to them, which translates roughly into English as "savage!"  They have changed their name since people from all around were afraid of them and were known as the tribe that killed people. They felt that since they have changed (been transformed) that they are no longer the "feared Auca Indians".  For a more detailed account on how they have changed, follow this link and read the article  (http://www.connectionmagazine.org/archives_old/archives/1998/september/amazon.htm.).

 Bellow the photos is the history of the cross and story behind it.



Full view, slightly smaller than this picture (6.25"x4"). 

Itota is the Waoroni word for Jesus

bottom part of front of cross

back of cross, the grandson's signature 

Nate Saint's, the pilot, had a house in Shell, Ecuador.  Over the years, it had become severely damaged by termites, weather and age, the house needed to be rebuilt. Because of the significance the house played in the area and what it meant to missionarys in the country, they decided to renovate it and actually just finished this summer. It was with the discarded original lumber that the grandson of one of the native Waoroni Indians, Mincaye, who killed the five Missionaries, constructed this cross. He has crafted roughly 200 crosses.The grandsons uses the crosses and other products to sell for funds for jungle mission work and to help maintain the restored house. 

A PIECE OF HISTORY THAT KEEPS THE STORY GOING

From the blog, "Musings from Graceland" who had three teenagers go on mission trips this past summer, and I had donated some items to their auction.


In 1956, 5 young missionaries were killed in the jungles of Ecuador as they worked to build a relationship with indigenous people who had long been known for their violent ways and isolated culture. Nate Saint and the other missionaries, including Jim Elliot, "had a burning desire to follow Jesus' command to take the gospel message into all the world. They had prayed for years for this primitive group that had never heard the redemption story of peace with God through the death of Christ."*Because of their deaths, untold numbers of young people were motivated to give their lives to taking the message of Jesus to the unreached across the world. And today, a new generation is growing up and many of them are choosing to turn away from the its-all-about-me Western mentality and live their lives for the sake of the call...the call to take the pace and love of Jesus to dark and hurting places.

The home of Nate Saint still stands. It is still used as a base for mission work in Ecuador. But over the decades, the house began to need work done on it and termite infestation meant that if major restoration was not undertaken, it would fall to bits. The restoration process took place last year and now pieces of the wood and nails are being used to make handcrafts that provide a financial living for area Ecuadorians. The cross we now have is fashioned from wood that was part of the house that Nate Saint and his family called home and that many of the other area missionaries would often gather in for meetings and fellowship.

To read more about the life of Nate Saint, go to this website: http://www.atanycost.org/
To read about the house restoration, go to: http://www.outreachmagazine.com/news-and-stories/organizations/3895-Rebuilt-Nate-Saint-House-Dedicated-Ecuador.html
*Quoted from: http://www.atanycost.org/images/DidTheyHaveToDie.pdf

http://www.christianheroes.com/people/christian_heroes_jim_elliot.asp
http://www.bobjordan.net/ministry/catalyst/natesaint.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHPcioYjhmg

Now this simple, wooden cross, is a reminder of the lives that were freely given for the cause of Christ and the life that Christ gave for all of us.

The bidding on this simple yet powerful cross will start at $20.

Auction Information

As most of y'all have noticed, there has been a whole lot of postings and not a lot of information being updated. And I'm sure more than one person has asked what this whole auction thing is about, and I'm more than positive that a couple are wondering about what I am doing down here.

To start off, this is my second year down here in Ecuador (which last year can be read about on the first several posts on here), I work for Jungle Kids for Christ in Pununo, about 30 minutes from Tena. I am currently teaching English 3 days a week and as soon as we get transportation for me, I will be traveling to the isolated community of Pusuno which is deader in the jungle. There I will be teaching English again for another three days a week, traveling back and forth from to teach at both schools.  I encourage you to email or facebook me about what I'm doing here in Ecuador and how I got here. 

Now to get onto the auction part of it. Before the first year down here in Ecuador, I worked several jobs prior to leaving to pay for about 65-70% of my yearly expenses.  I also had family and several very good friends donate money to help make sure that all my bills got paid and expenses were met. The Lord called me back for another year service down here and since the Ecuadorian government wont allow me to get paid down here due to a low amount of jobs, I am having to raise money by other means. While I was in states over the summer, I was able to raise a little bit of money. I have  about $500-550/month in expenses (food, cell phone, internet, bus/taxi, school supplies, etc) plus my travel (airfare, visas, etc) to come back to the USA at once/year. I will also have a new expense this year; gas and maintenance on a used ATV that the organization will purchase to get me back and forth to the small village downriver of Pusuno. 

Last year, we had some good friends, who are very missions minded, have an auction to help support their trips. I liked the idea, so we stole it and it is one of the ways we are helping to raise funds for me to be here. Also, you get some really neat-o stuff in return for your support. So you can't really go wrong there either.

Since I am in Ecuador, a good 3,000+ miles from all of y'all, my family is helping me out. A TON. All the items are at my house and at the end of the auction they will deliver your items as soon as they can.  If you live close by, it will be taken to your house or business. They will mail all items to people that are farther than 30 miles away. There is no additional cost for either delivery fee.  We will just ask for confirmation on mailed items.

I (Jake) will receive 100% of the funds that are raised from this auction and they will help support me for the rest of the year.

If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). I will have several items from Ecuador to sell and even items from other parts of the world that will be posted later on.

I really encourage to keep coming back since it will take several days to get all the items up. Also, if you wouldn't mind spreading the word about this with other people that would be stupendous.

You can be outbid, you will put the amount you want to bid in the comment section.  The person with the highest bid at the end of the auction will be awarded the item.  If there is something that you are wanting, make sure that you check back often.

We (myself and my family) will try to describe to the best of our abilities from what we know personally or what we have found off the internet.  If the item did not meet your expectations, please let us know and we will refund your money, minus the return shipping.  We want you to be pleased with your purchase.

I greatly appreciate you looking at these items and supporting the Lord's ministry has let me be apart of.

Six headbands from Ecuador - bid for your favorite one

Green, blue, black, white stripe                                  Torquoise solid

  Blue, black, white stripe                                           Lime solid                                      

Torquoise, blue, green, white stripe                          Pink solid

 one of the ways you could wear it

Look at the previous post to see different poses.

The striped headbands he bought in the town of Banos, where he says are hot springs

and a tourist spot and many natives go there - it means "bath" there ~~~smile~~~.

The solid headbands were bought in Quito.

You are bidding for one headband at a time.  You can bid on more than one if you would like.  I personally own one and I use it quite frequently.  It is breathable and it is does not make you sweat.

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Wednesday, September 28th.  Shipping in included in the auction price.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Starting bid is $3 for the solid, $3.50 for the striped.  Make sure you put description by your bid amount

Ecuadorian Headbands modeled

We had our lovely Stephanie model my headband that I chose to keep (and she is much more beautiful) and our beautiful Lizzy who loves GOD.  These girls are on fire for GOD and are a huge asset to our youth ministry =D When you bid on the headbands, give us the description.  The headband can be worn this way or you could "scrunch" it - I have even used it as a ponytail holder.

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Wednesday, September 28th.  Shipping in included in the auction price.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

We will start the bidding at $3.  Happy Bidding!!!

small woven Ecuador bracelet

This is a simple bracelet but could be your reminder to pray for Ecuador.  It could also be used as a bookmark if you wanted. Jake got his bracelet was in the market in Quito from a little old lady who was very nice to him - I think it was his smile =D

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Tuesday, September 27th.  Shipping in included in the auction price.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Starting bid $1.50

Tan, larger feathers on wasp stingers

These tan and ivory feathers are attached to a wasp stinger.  These are approximately 2" in diameter.  These earrings are only made in the jungle.  Beautiful earrings.  They are the same earrings-different camera.

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Tuesday, September 27th. Delivery price is included in the auction price (meaning that you will not have to pay to have it delivered, what you bid is the final price).

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Starting bid is $5.00

wasp stinger and orange feather earrings

These earrings are made from wasp stingers (yes, they are that big) and feathers.  These are ONLY made in the jungle.  You just put them in your ear and they stay.  They are SO COOL!!!  The feathers are a beautiful bright orange and approximately 1" in diameter.  You can see the size difference in the 2 sets of feather earrings.

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Tuesday, September 27th. Shipping is included in the auction price.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

starting bid is $5.00

Jungle Kids for Christ: English for Pusuno

Another blanket in use =D

This is Jake and Steven, crashed out after a hard day of playing this past summer as he was resting, visiting friends and seeking GOD on what His plans were for Jake.  He knew he was going back to Ecuador, Jake just was not sure if it was to stay full time at the school where he was previously or go deeper into the jungle to minister to the natives.

It is not so much that I wanted to show you how cute these boys are but wanted you to notice the blue blanket - we are auctioning off several blankets and wanted you to see how big they are. ~~~momma b

Blue and white striped hammock

This is actually the same colored hammock that Jake has in his room.

This is a Hammock, most homes in Ecuador have one of these. These hammocks are very colorful, if taken care of they should last a long time. Almost 1 in 3 of the locals has one or more of these in their house. Unlike most of the hammock that you will see in the states, these do not have the wooden support bar that keeps it tight, so that you lay “in” these instead of “on” it. They will fit two adults snugly, one comfortably. Great place to take a nap in the heat of the day. Since they are made of cotton, they will stretch in the fist cuoupke of uses, this is normal and is to be expected. The bottom picture is one that Jake has in his room and he uses it regularly (his house actually has 5 - 1 for each intern + 2 more). If you have gone on mission trips south of the USA, then you have probably used then and know how comfortable they are.

The dimensions for the hammock base are approx 42"x84" or 114" with the ends added (the rope part to attach to hooks, tree or a stand)

Here is info that found online and different sites (sited below):

• They are typically priced online close to $99 but found on sale for $79.
• Much safer and easier to get into than a wide hammock that uses a spreader bar that is unstable and flips easily.
• Our solid material Ecuadorian hammocks (canvas style – though these hammocks are actually produced from high quality cotton) have the following benefits

1. Great if you are in an area with mosquitoes, with a light covering on top in early evening you don’t have to worry about bites and stings through the hammock.
2. Great if you want to have pets in the hammock with you and are worried claws might damage an open weave.
3. Great if you have small children and are worries curious little fingers may pull thread out of open weave hammocks

• Ecuadorian hammocks are made from solid material as oposed to the open weave of Mexican hammocks. Generally made from 100% cotton these hammocks are amazingly strong and durable.Made around the Otovalo region of Ecuador these hammocks will provide you with the best relaxation available in a solid material style hammock. The workmanship and quality in these hammocks is evident when you look carefully at the weave and especially the finish at the ends of the hammock arms.This solid material style hammock can be a great option for people with small children who may get their fingers into open weave hammocks and pull out threads and damage the hammock. These hammocks are also ideal if you are in an area where mosquitos can be a problem as open weave hammocks can allow mossies to bite you through the hammock.... not a problem with these solid material South American hammocks.
  These hammocks have been ethically produced by small communities and artisans.
• The Indians of the Otavalo tribe in the Northern Andes of Ecuador have been known as excellent weavers for over 500 years and they are the makers of our hammocks.
• The suggested maximum weight is 330lbs (150kg).

gathered info from:http://www.hammockheaven.com; www.nayanayon.com; ebay.com

I have seen pictures of people laying in these hammocks in all directions and ways.ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Monday, September 26th.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Purple and pink striped hammock

This is a Hammock, most homes in Ecuador have one of these. These hammocks are very colorful, if taken care of they should last a long time. Almost 1 in 3 of the locals has one or more of these in their house. Unlike most of the hammock that you will see in the states, these do not have the wooden support bar that keeps it tight, so that you lay “in” these instead of “on” it. They will fit two adults snugly, one comfortably. Great place to take a nap in the heat of the day. Since they are made of cotton, they will stretch in the fist cuoupke of uses, this is normal and is to be expected. The bottom picture is one that Jake has in his room and he uses it regularly (his house actually has 5 - 1 for each intern + 2 more). If you have gone on mission trips south of the USA, then you have probably used then and know how comfortable they are.

The dimensions for the hammock base are approx 42"x84" or 114" with the ends added (the rope part to attach to hooks, tree or a stand)

Here is info that found online and different sites (sited below):

• They are typically priced online close to $99 but found on sale for $79.
• Much safer and easier to get into than a wide hammock that uses a spreader bar that is unstable and flips easily.
• Our solid material Ecuadorian hammocks (canvas style – though these hammocks are actually produced from high quality cotton) have the following benefits

1. Great if you are in an area with mosquitoes, with a light covering on top in early evening you don’t have to worry about bites and stings through the hammock.
2. Great if you want to have pets in the hammock with you and are worried claws might damage an open weave.
3. Great if you have small children and are worries curious little fingers may pull thread out of open weave hammocks

• Ecuadorian hammocks are made from solid material as oposed to the open weave of Mexican hammocks. Generally made from 100% cotton these hammocks are amazingly strong and durable.Made around the Otovalo region of Ecuador these hammocks will provide you with the best relaxation available in a solid material style hammock. The workmanship and quality in these hammocks is evident when you look carefully at the weave and especially the finish at the ends of the hammock arms.This solid material style hammock can be a great option for people with small children who may get their fingers into open weave hammocks and pull out threads and damage the hammock. These hammocks are also ideal if you are in an area where mosquitos can be a problem as open weave hammocks can allow mossies to bite you through the hammock.... not a problem with these solid material South American hammocks.
  These hammocks have been ethically produced by small communities and artisans.
• The Indians of the Otavalo tribe in the Northern Andes of Ecuador have been known as excellent weavers for over 500 years and they are the makers of our hammocks.
• The suggested maximum weight is 330lbs (150kg).

gathered info from:http://www.hammockheaven.com; www.nayanayon.com; ebay.com

I have seen pictures of people laying in these hammocks in all directions and ways.ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Monday, September 26th.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Pink and white striped hammock

This is a Hammock, most homes in Ecuador have one of these.  These hammocks are very colorful, if taken care of they should last a long time. Almost 1 in 3 of the locals has one or more of these in their house. Unlike most of the hammock that you will see in the states, these do not have the wooden support bar that keeps it tight, so that you lay “in” these instead of “on” it. They will fit two adults snugly, one comfortably. Great place to take a nap in the heat of the day. Since they are made of cotton, they will stretch in the fist couple of uses, this is normal and is to be expected. The bottom picture is one that Jake has in his room and he uses it regularly (his house actually has 5 - 1 for each intern + 2 more).  If you have gone on mission trips south of the USA, then  you have probably used then and know how comfortable they are.

The dimensions for the hammock base are approx 42"x84" or 114" with the ends added (the rope part to attach to hooks, tree or a stand)

Here is info that found online and different sites (sited below):

• They are typically priced online  close to $99 but found on sale for $79.
•  Much safer and easier to get into than a wide hammock that uses a spreader bar that is unstable and flips easily.
• Our solid material Ecuadorian hammocks (canvas style – though these hammocks are actually produced from high quality cotton) have the following benefits
  

1. Great if you are in an area with mosquitoes, with a light covering on top in early evening you don’t have to worry about bites and stings through the hammock.
2. Great if you want to have pets in the hammock with you and are worried claws might damage an open weave.
3. Great if you have small children and are worries curious little fingers may pull thread out of open weave hammocks

•  Ecuadorian hammocks are made from solid material as oposed to the open weave of Mexican hammocks. Generally made from 100% cotton these hammocks are amazingly strong and durable.Made around the Otovalo region of Ecuador these hammocks will provide you with the best relaxation available in a solid material style hammock. The workmanship and quality in these hammocks is evident when you look carefully at the weave and especially the finish at the ends of the hammock arms.This solid material style hammock can be a great option for people with small children who may get their fingers into open weave hammocks and pull out threads and damage the hammock. These hammocks are also ideal if you are in an area where mosquitos can be a problem as open weave hammocks can allow mossies to bite you through the hammock.... not a problem with these solid material South American hammocks.
  These hammocks have been ethically produced by small communities and artisans.
• The Indians of the Otavalo tribe in the Northern Andes of Ecuador have been known as excellent weavers for over 500 years and they are the makers of our hammocks.
• The suggested maximum weight is 330lbs (150kg).

gathered info from:http://www.hammockheaven.com; www.nayanayon.com; ebay.com

I have seen pictures of people laying in these hammocks in all directions and ways.
ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Monday, September 26th.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Here is another item for the auction. This is an alpaca blanket, it measures 62"x96" (roughly 5'x8'). You are viewing 1/4 of the blanket, since it is folded. This is SUPER SOFT!!! This is made in Ecuador. This blanket also has a fuzzy type weave through it to make it softer. These pictures were taken with the blanket on top of a twin mattress (folded in fourths). I know you will enjoy this item. =D  Picture is pretty true to form on the colors.

(alot of this description was taken from someone who sells these blanketsbut not all).Silky soft warm durable light weight 100% pure natural luxurious alpaca wool queen size blanket. Alpaca provides the softness of cashmere; luster of silk; lightness of feathers; warmth of wool. It is approximately 26 ounces of pure reversible luxury - exact same color/design on both sides. These were imported from Ecuador and hand woven on old fashioned wooden looms from the people there. These blankets are selling for $90 on Amazon.com even on sale. (I gathered info from Jake and other sources and combined it on here)

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Monday, September 26th.

Jake will have several items (jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Wanted you to see a blanket in action, this is picture of a very special family friend of ours.  They shared this picture, letting us know it was their new favorite blanket and big enough that they can all get wrapped up in.  The ages range from Kinder to Middle School.  We love this family and we hope that any item you bid on will become a favorite of yours too.  momma B

Auction item two

The outside of this purse is made from 100% wool and it is made in Ecuador.  This is a messenger type bag and it is large.  The strap is 36" in length.  The "bag" part measures 17" at the widest part and 12.5" deep.  It has a 10"x5" padded base at the bottom.  It is lined so you will not lose items.  One of the coolest things about this purse is the outside pocket (picture 2).  It is deep, it is not just a tiny pocket.  This would work great for work or school or just a fun bag to have.  These colors are so vibrant!!!  You would typically wear this over one shoulder, across your chest but you could wear this over one shoulder if desired (and tall). The front pocket has a button closure but the top has a full zipper opening/closure so you could see what is inside it.  You could easily carry books in it.  The strap is 3" wide so it will disperse the weight across your body. 

  

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE. If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments. It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received). This auction ends at 8am on Monday, September 26th.

Jake will have several items (blankets, jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE. THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

Auction item one

Here is the first item up for the auction.  This is an alpaca blanket, it measures 62"x96" (roughly 5'x8').  You are viewing 1/4 of the blanket, since it is folded.  This is SUPER SOFT!!!  This is made in Ecuador.  It is a salmony pink with stripes (tiny deep purple, fuchsia, space, deep purple, green, light pink - then reverse of colors) and then a stripe of (deep purples, pinks, lt. blue).  This blanket also has a light pink fuzzy type weave through it to make it softer.  These pictures were taken with the blanket on top of a twin mattress (folded in fourths).  I know you will enjoy this item. =D

Silky soft warm durable light weight 100% pure natural luxurious alpaca wool queen size blanket.  Alpaca provides the softness of cashmere; luster of silk; lightness of feathers; warmth of wool.  It is approximately 26 ounces of pure reversible luxury - exact same color/design on both sides.  These were imported from Ecuador and hand woven on old fashioned wooden looms from the people there.  These blankets are selling for $90 on Amazon.com even on sale. (I gathered info from Jake and other sources and combined it on here)

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAKE BICKHAM TO HELP FUND HIS SUPPORT AS HE IS LIVING IN ECUADOR AS A MISSIONARY IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE.  If you are wanting to bid on this item, please post the amount you would like to bid in the comments.  It will be delivered to you after the auction ends (and payment is received).  This auction ends at 8am on Monday, September 26th. 

Jake will have several items (jewelry, purses, paintings, scarves, hammocks and even items from other parts of the world) going up for auction over several days, please feel free to keep coming back.

THIS IS AN ONLINE AUCTION - WHERE YOU PUT THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BID AND PEOPLE CAN OUTBID YOU IF THEY CHOOSE.  THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE CLOSING DATE OF THE AUCTION WILL BE AWARDED THE ITEM.

This blanket already has a starting bid of $30. A friend of ours has one of these blankets and is wanting another, I tell you they are very nice.

State side.... for a little while at least. Part 2

Now even though a large part of me coming back to the states for the summer was to see family, friends and be able to take a break from teaching, there was also two other reasons for coming back. One was getting info out about trying to have a team come down in the summer of 2012, and the other was... Money. Or the more socially acceptable/used term is support. Because I was going to be down here longer, I needed to have more donations so that I could still eat and all that good stuff. I had organized several speaking things at churches, to talk about who I am and what I am doing.

The last morning of camp came, farewells were said, hugs were given, promises to keep in touch made and there was a river of tears. Like always. From there, I drove to Fort Smith, AR  to spend the next two days with some good friends of mine and speak at their church once and then again at their house. I had a great time there, and it was very relaxing. We played several games, rode four-wheelers, got said four-wheeler stuck, lit fireworks, wrestled with the nephews and overall had a ball. On the last morning that I was there, Paula and I tried our hands at making waffles... Some... Err.. Smart.. person, missed read the amount of oil needed, and instead of a TBS of oil... We ended up with just over a Cup. Several additions of mix later, we ended up with something that was shaped like a waffle, but tasted closer to a fried doughnut.

Now they go to two churches, one on 'Sunday' mornings and another on 'Wednesdays' nights. I was going to be speaking at the 'Wednesday' church, however my plans fell through, one of the church staff found out that they had a brain tumor and instead of me speaking, they were going to be having a time of prayer. So we changed our plans and went to the 'Sunday' church. It had been less than two days since I had received the email about teaching in Pusuno. It was still a thought that was constantly being mulled around in my thinker. Still a thought that I didn't feel like I had an answer to. However, soon as the pastor started to speak, that had changed. The sermon was on faith, and not just faith as some vague broad topic, but on the faith we had previously and the faith that we have now.He made the point that many people have at one point in their life, made a decision solely based on God, normally something that goes against what the 'common sense' would dictate us to do. However, so often we seem to forget what God has done through us and for us when something comes up that we are not ready for and rely on what our brains tell us to do.

In my case, in August of 2010 I left everything that I had ever know straight out of high school to move into a jungle mission in a 3rd world South American country. Yet here I was, now familiar with the area, the people and the culture, and I was nervous about teaching in a school that was 25km away. God was obviously looking out for me, I had seen His handiwork all throughout my life and in the past year, but for some reason I thought I was all by my lonesome. That Sunday was like a 2x4 to the head. Something to clear the cobwebs and reset what I was supposed to be looking at. Not at where I was, where I was going or even where I would be. I just needed to set back, and know that He is God.

State side.... for a little while at least. Part 1

Since I arrived in Ecuador at the beginning of August, I had not left the country. I had traveled all through it and seen various parts of it, but I had yet to return to the States. Originally I was planning on only being down here for one session and after school ended I was hoping to be able to  travel around a bit and possibly visit some of the neighboring countries. However, since I knew that God was going to be having back for at least another year, I made plans to make the most of my summer in the USA. My plane flew out on the morning of the June 14th and I was back in CC Town before 2pm.

My family and Holden met me at the air port and went dirrectly to my grandparent's house. We had an awesome time just visiting, seeing all of my cousins and grandparent's and eating, eating way to much. However, that evening when we got home, at around 11pm Dad woke up in severe pain and went to the ER. Because he had knee surgery the week before, and had taken an eight hour trip to Dallas a few days after surgery, he had developed two blood clots. One in his calf and the other inside part of his lung. He was in the hospital for over a week and has since been doing great!

There is a Christian AWANA type camp that I have done for the last five years in Arkansas. While last summer (2010) was my last year as a camper. Since it was a few days after I returned, I was able to go this year, even though my dad was still in the hospital. I helped out as a staffer and have several occasions to speak to the high schoolers about what I was doing, how I got to Ecuador, what I have experienced and be able to challenge them about what they were doing currently as far as the big picture. I had a wonderful time being with everyone, seeing old friends, meeting new campers and having a busy but restful time. We filled up thousands of water balloons, covered people's faces with peanut butter, heard some great sermons and excellent fellowship.

On the last evening of the camp I received and email from my director, talking about the direction that he felt the the Lord was taking the ministry, and that was to the community of Pusuno. We have been going to Pusuno for a while now, mainly when there are teams down or when we have clothes or something to take them. But we have not yet had a solid future changing, long term impact relation with them. Not that they are ungrateful for our what we do, but there is so much more that we could be doing. That we ought to be doing.  And that was the purpose of the email, to test the waters so to speak, getting my thoughts on going down river every morning 4 days a week to teach English. To see if *I* would be interested in going. Now I had just spoke three times in front of 200 people and talked individually with several of them, urging them to leave their comfort zones and really, in essence being more than what we currently are, being more than mediocrity, going for it no matter what and seeing what God is wanting them to do in their lives. And then this was put in front of me. A shot out from left field,  something that  caught me completely off  guard. Not that I was against going, but it was not what I thought the email was about at all in the slightest. That night, the last night of camp, I was confused about what God was doing. I thought that I already knew what I where I was supposed to be. In Ecuador, in the jungle, teaching, but not several miles down river from where I was last year. I had become comfortable with where I was, and I started to wonder, almost fearfully "what if I am truly out of my depth?"

Repost From Last Year - Feb/March Update 2011

Early in the month of February we had the dreaded midterms. A week of testing over all that the kids had learned over the first half of the trimester. The bane of teachers, well maybe not, but you get the picture. Luckily, Jean and I are world class teachers and had no doubts about our student’s ability to pass these exams. I’m sure it’s not a surprise to any of yall that all of the kids passed, and with flying colors in almost all cases. While it did throw a kink into our schedule since we forgot that we had the midterms, we have been able to get it all straightened out and we’re ready to face the ones coming up next week on April 11-15.  

We also had Jonathan, an Ecuadorian friend of mine come to stay in the cabin with us for five weeks. He is the younger brother of Ximena and he was interested in possibly coming to help with the ministry later on down the road and spent some of his break from school getting his feet wet.  He helped me out in Math, PE, Bible and did the Spanish class for the kindergarteners. He was a great help and it was a lot of fun having another guy around my own age here in the cabin. While it might not have been the sanest to go in some of yall’s eyes, we did jump off of the tallest bridge around. It was a lot of fun and overall it was a success. Jonathan and I went tubing a lot with the kids while he was here, something that I hope to continue. One evening he made us a traditional Ecuadorian supper, which turned out very well. Hopefully I watched closely enough that I will be able to make some of the items later when we want a change of pace from our normal fare.

We had a team from the freezing state of Massatuses come to help lay the second floor foundation for the house. They did an excellent job of it and the floor looks awesome! There were several people who said that they were interested in possibly coming back to teach at some point, but we will just have to wait and see who The Lord provides us with as teachers for the upcoming year. We had a lot of fun with this team and the kids had a blast with them at VBS, almost every afternoon after VBS was over some form or shape of water fight broke out.

Joyce had her 17^th birthday in the month of February. Jean made a bunny rabbit cake and we made an evening of it over at the house with the kids. There was a lot of dancing, which yours truly was utterly awful trying, but the kids and Joyce had a lot of fun at it. We even had an enactment of Little Bunny Foofoo in honor of Joyce. It was a great night, and hopefully we gave her a taste of the appreciation that we have for her.  

Baptisms (insert Jean’s part here. I wasn’t there to see it. I had to stay home and watch the property.)

March was very memorable, and parts of it will always be adhered to my memory. Less than a month after the Massatuses team left, we had another team showing up; however this team was straight from the South, Tennessee. They had come from Darrin’s home church TDF, and if all goes as planned, they will be sending two teams a year. One compiled of college and young adults, the other older high schoolers. The TDF team busted their backsides for us for four mornings in a row, digging holes for piers to go into and then pouring concrete for them. It was a major undertaking and they did a stellar job on it.  What they did was literally lay the foundation for another cabin that they are building so that we can house more interns. In the evenings, even though they were tired from the morning’s work, they put on a VBS program. After the second day of VBS three of the guys and I jumped off of the bridge. They had some great landings, and I’m pretty sure they had a great time jumping. Jean, Joyce and I were able to go to dinner with this team, get to know some of them better and even give our stories about how it came about that we live here

The day before the team left, Jonathan had to leave to go to Quito to visit with Richard and Ximena before going back home to Manta. It was strange to think of him leaving, he had been here long enough so that he became apart of what we are doing here. We had gained a member to the family, a friend and a coworker.

 I had the opportunity to take the bus back to Quito with them when they left that Saturday, making a couple of stops along the way. We stopped off in Banos for a couple hours so that the team couple pick up some thinks at the market is they so desired. It was here that I was able to pick up items for the auction that I donated to. After that we had the driver step on it and we made tracks for Quito. I stayed with the Roselands that night so that I could make it to Lealani’s baby dedication that they were having that morning at church. Then I took the bus back to my beloved jungle.

Things went pretty normal the first couple of days I was back, but Wednesday after school was over I was attacked. I had laid to rest, and then when I got up I found that I hurt pretty much everywhere and was very cold, so cold in fact that my teeth were chattering, and I still very tired in spite of resting. I was supposed to watch the kids that night, but I had to ask Jean to do because I was just wasn’t up to it. I went to bed early that night and when I woke up I was in no shape to be teaching. I had gotten a fever before I went to bed the night before and I still had it when I woke up. However, I didn’t stay up I was exhausted so I rolled over and slept until after lunch. When I awoke, I drank some water and crawled back into bed. This was how it went until Friday night. I felt a lot better when I woke up Friday in the afternoon and even had something sizeable to eat. Saturday I felt just about healed up and we at the cabin decided to go the Tena. I walked the three-fourths of a mile felt pretty good, just a little tired. Then we walked over a mile when we got to Tena and I was wiped. I didn’t even feel like eating when we took a break for lunch. Soon as got back home, I crawled into my bed and took a three hour nap. When I awoke, sickness had reared its ugly head once again. It was same song, third verse, but this time on Monday I went to go get blood work done to see if I had Dengue Fever. The report said that I did not have it at that time, however it did say that I had had it previously, go figure. We decided that there wasn’t much that we could do, but wait it out and keep on doing what I had been.  I spent most of my time sleeping, resting and drinking fluids. After Tuesday I didn’t sleep as much, but I did lie in bed most of the day. Over the course of the week I watched several movies and rested, not having any energy for anything else.  The next Monday I had enough strength to teach three classes, Tuesday I taught four and then Wednesday through Friday I was able to get five under my belt. I am still gaining strength back, and am at about 90% at the moment. I would like to thank everyone that prayed for me during my sickness and to those of you who sent me messages of encouragement, wrote on my wall or called to make sure I was keeping up the fight, thank you. Yall helped my keep on keeping on brightened my day.

Until next time, from the heart of Ecuador, keep breathing and don’t die.