The Nichols Family-Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico

Year 1: The year of survival; Answering the call
Year 2: Yes, we can really do this.

Year Three: Setting realistic goals for longevity

Karlee Nichols - October 1, 2023

This summer, the goal that Reggie and I set before us was to pray and seriously consider what we need as individuals and a couple/family to set ourselves up for longevity. Now that we have seen what life is like in Morelia and working at Centro NOE, we are fully praying through what God is calling us to.

A standing prayer request has been for Reggie’s language learning. Because of limited time with him managing the home, finances, international transactions, and a lot of donor retention along with responsibilities at NOE, his ability to comprehend and speak Spanish has been delayed. This has led to a stunted growth in involvement in ministry with students and their families.

  As a result, with full approval of NOE leadership, Reggie will be dedicating this year to studying and practicing Spanish. He will not be teaching classes so he can spend more time studying and practicing. He will remain the coordinator for short-term missions groups and will also manage details for the Dream Team American Visa process. He will also help me lead worship when possible. This is a huge shift for Reggie’s schedule, but we hope and pray that this will allow him to grow personal friendships with other men to give him more spiritual encouragement in Morelia and lead classes and other ministries with more confidence. 

For me, Karlee, I am looking forward to a more sustainable role this year, too. Having taught two levels of English during the first two years, it was

  agreed that I would only teach one level of English, so I can focus on youth Bible study, English teacher trainings, workshops, and development, and a new girls’ discipleship group that I am really excited about.

With Selah only having two more years at home and Levi only three, we are hoping to have a bit more time with them in the evenings and on weekends. Because we are an after-school program, balancing our busy schedules isn’t always easy. We also want to make sure we can be available to help Harmony as much as possible during these first few months.

Please continue praying for us that we can balance our schedule to meet these goals, especially Reggie’s language learning.

Seeing the U.S. Through a New Lens: Cross-cultural living sheds new light on ministry

Reggie Nichols: October 2, 2023

“No one likes a know-it-all, and believe me, I know!” coined by yours truly, is one my favorite sayings. Another (not coined by me) is, “It is best to stay quiet and appear ignorant than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.” In other words, sometimes it’s best to keep your mouth shut until you totally understand the full context of what is going on. In one of Paul’s letters,
1 Corinthians 9:22, he states that he desires to become all things to all men so that some might be saved. To be able to do this, a person must really know the other person and not just work on assumptions.

Something we have learned very clearly over the last two years is how long and slow the understanding of a new culture is. At the risk of sounding like a Debbie Downer, a one or two week visit somewhere is barely touching the tiny tip of the iceberg when it comes to cultural awareness, let alone understanding. Living somewhere for a few months will start to help you find the right questions to ask. A couple years into the journey of navigating a new culture will just start to give you real perspective, but also gives a new awareness of how far you have to go (and that is WITH knowing the language!).

Our friends at ACCI have told us on multiple occasions that an average timeframe for adaptation to new culture is 5-7 years. Short-term or outside observation will only give limited cultural understanding, but usually only based on your own cultural references because you simply do not have the time nor exposure to immerse yourself in every aspect of the culture nor do you have the same opportunities to ask questions to a variety of people to get a variety of perspectives.

A few nights ago, I saw a U.S. news commentator blindly question the use of the phrase “building a bridge to the Hispanic culture” that was used by the 2023 September Republican Debate Latina moderator when asking a debate question. The U.S. commentator assumed, from her non-Hispanic U.S. perspective that the Hispanic moderator was being condescending to her own culture by not phrasing it in such a way to indicate that the Hispanics should be invited to the table. However, If the U.S. commentator were to have looked at the phrase that was used through a Hispanic lens, she would have understood that the Hispanic culture does not consider themselves to be in the same room as others, specifically the U.S. Not because they do not believe they are good enough but because the Hispanic community values like-minded cultures with values like their own.

The Hispanic culture, because of years of being taken advantage of by European countries and the U.S. (Mexican-American War), have learned that it is best to build relationships with like-minded people and countries. However, they do understand the need to have professional relationships with neighboring countries. So, in the mind of Hispanics, they aren’t even in the room to be invited to the table. So, from the perspective of the Hispanic moderator, a bridge must be built, or a door opened so that the Hispanics are in the same room, and then afterwards, be invited to sit at the table, if that’s even important for them to do so.

Layers are like the chapters in a book where the deeper you go, the more you understand. When you have layers of blankets you get greater warmth.

Understanding culture is the same. There are times when you think you may understand something, then, you are exposed to something else that takes your understanding another layer deeper.

So, what I have learned over the last two years is to respect the beauty, difficulty, and complexity of trying to understand the other side completely. The deeper you go in your understanding of a new culture, you will find yourself exploring the root of your own beliefs, your own culture, and your own understandings of this world based on the foundation laid by your own upbringing. When looking at others and providing ministry to others, to understand another person’s foundation is SOOO beneficial and crucial because it helps us understand the “why they think it”, “why they say it”, and “why they do it”. This is a Biblical application of being all things to all people. We can’t be them if we don’t know them. We can even be speaking the same language yet have no or limited understanding if we aren’t using cultural awareness about our own cultural upbringing along with the deeper levels of the culture you are in.

Many times, I have learned, we as humans unknowingly act like know-it-alls. The bottom line is we must be hopeful and intentional that what the other person hears is the thing that is being said. We must be able to see life through their lens. Psychologically, that is called a phenomenological perspective. In life, that is called common sense. It’s hard work to see life from another’s perspective.

Finish Well: Youth Bible Study at Centro NOE Loma Libre 
The Power of the Gospel
Karlee Nichols - June 4, 2023

June is here. Rain season seems to be taking its time. It’s hot. My classroom is hot. The students look tired. I am tired. We are SO. Close. to the end of the school year. We have all worked so hard. There are days where it is harder to find the energy to jump into teacher or leader mode, but I feel like God keeps whispering in my ear, “Karlee, finish well.”

In Acts 20:24, Paul says, “But I do not account my life of any true value nor as previous to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”

On the evening of Friday, June 30^th, NOE will have its English program graduation. Due to longer breaks for Christmas and Easter, here in Mexico, schools do not let out until the end of June or middle of July, then start again anywhere from the beginning to end of August. As a teacher who is accustomed to finishing at the end of May or early June, I’ve decided my yearly motto come May 31st will be, “Finish well”. It is easy to get lazy and just finish, but I truly believe that God is calling me to focus on finishing well.

This year at our center, I have been leading the youth Bible study on Wednesday nights after English classes. Last year this wouldn’t have even been an option, as our students were very young, spiritually absent, and simply weren’t interested in God, a relationship with Jesus, nor studying His Word. By the end of June last year, they were excited to hear that we were opening a youth Bible study once again at our center!

For an hour and fifteen minutes each week, an average of about 15-20 students have been gathering to learn about the gospel of John and answering the question, “Who is Jesus?”

Savior. Son of God. Living Water. Bread of Life. Light of the World. The Resurrection and the Life. The Word. 100% God and 100% Man. Miracle Worker. Healer. Prophet. Teacher. Friend. The Door. One Who Loves. The Ultimate Sacrifice. Messiah. Lamb of God. Rebel. The Good Shepherd. The Way, the Truth, and the Life. The True Vine.

Our group is growing with students inviting others to learn Truth, worship together in music and prayer, and have a group of like-minded people who want to know Christ and live forgiven. They are worth finishing well for! Please continue to pray for us as we finish well in English and guitar classes and sharing the power of the gospel through June 30^th!

“A CHICK-FIL-A SANDWICH, PLEASE.”  

Reggie Nichols

Hebrews 12:2 – “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Jesus, in the middle of enduring the cross, considered it His joy. Jesus, in the middle of the shame of all He experienced, considered it His joy.

Hebrews 12:2 makes me think of Chick-fil-A. When you make an order with one of the friendly cashiers at Chick-fil-A, almost 100% of time you receive the response, “My pleasure”. If somehow you manage to order the most complicated order ever heard at one of these franchises, still, it is likely you will hear, “My pleasure.” 

Jesus was the master of “My pleasure”. He knew his purpose. He knew what He came to do. His heart was right. His eyes were focused and no matter his circumstance, “in his joy”, He fulfilled his purpose to his earthly end. I could only imagine seeing Jesus for the first time in heaven and saying to Him, “Jesus, thank you for what You did as my Creator and Savior!” His response may very well be, “My pleasure”. When we know our purpose, our hearts are right, and our eyes are focused, no matter our circumstance, our response can also be, “My pleasure”.

We, as lovers of Jesus, get to know the “what” and the “why”, the vision and reason of our lives. We are called to love God and love others (the what) because He first loved us (the why). It is in that “what” and “why” where life makes sense. It is where we find purpose. It is what God puts deep within us so that, if everything in our lives failed, we would still have success and be able to continue “in our joy”.

A few years ago, I struggled through a job position transition. I found myself unsuccessful in being able to adequately find solutions for some serious needs of my team. I worked hard. I thought outside the box. I made many recommendations. I even re-created a mathematical tool my organization used so that it would account for overtime to be able to show organizational loss with the overuse of staff. However, I didn’t accomplish what I had initially sought out to do, and professionally, I felt like I had failed. It was during those 7 months or so that I had to determine what a “win” was for me every day. My conclusion was that if I was able to connect with God every day, see His beauty, and then be able to effectively speak that beauty into my staff, then it was a win.

There were lots of tears over those seven months as we tried to figure things out organizationally for an overworked staff. However, I also saw tears over those seven months from staff as they were reminded regularly of God’s love for them. So, although professionally, I felt like a failure because I didn’t accomplish what I was being paid to do, personally, because of the fulfilling of my “what” and “why”, I fulfilled what I was called to do.

This year, 2023, I pray we as believers are able to fulfill our purpose and live with intentionality to speak God’s love into the lives of others and consider this our win for each day.

Worship through Guitar

Reggie Nichols

“The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.” – B.B. King.

Before B.B. King died, Karlee and I had the opportunity to see one of his last concerts at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. It was a night to remember! B.B. King knew his guitar intimately. It was his world. It was his life. God created sound, music, melodies…all things used to worship our Creator through music. 

Twice a week I teach 5-7 students that range from 14-55 years old how to play the guitar. A goal of the music program at NOE is to try to help students fall in love with music. What an honor it is to be a part of someone’s life-journey through which they can worship! Before every guitar class, we pray a version of the following, “God, we pray that You are honored through the music we make tonight and that our hearts are moved to give this gift back to You throughout our lives”.

Over Christmas, my class had the opportunity of leading a group of about 100 people in Christmas songs to honor the birth of our Savior. They were nervous and excited. Together, we led, and God was glorified through the songs we sung. The class has now entered their 2^nd of 3 trimesters of guitar class. I am super excited to see how the class grows over the remainder of the year!

Celebrating ONE Year: Karlee's Reflections

Hebrews 31: 8, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Today I praise a God that is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Though life around may change, He is faithful and steadfast. Happy 1-year anniversary to us! One year ago today, our family drove into Morelia with nothing but a trailer of our possessions and a peace that can only come from Jesus. We didn't know what all God had in store for us, but we trusted Him wholly as we navigated what has probably been the most challenging year of our lives.

Upon arrival, I was so relieved just to finally stop talking about this new journey and start making it all happen. Throughout this year, we saw God move in so many ways. We saw God stretch our children and come out stronger. We took on learning new systems on a daily basis with our new friends and "family” helping us along the way. I have felt myself be stretched and molded as Reggie and I slowly developed new systems within our home and at NOE. We have created friendships and beautiful relationships with our coworkers and students. God has given us opportunities to share the gospel with our family, friends, students, neighbors, and complete strangers.

We have witnessed students coming to know Jesus and begin a discipleship process. We faced unexpected challenges along the way, but then have others reach out with encouragement and prayer. We have felt times of great loneliness and loss, only to find ways to connect with others from the States or find good friends in Morelia (not that friends/family can be replaced, just added!). God is so faithful, and we have felt His faithfulness.

We have anticipated this day for a couple months now. One whole year living in Morelia. It didn't even seem possible. I had envisioned eating super Mexican food (bring on my favorite taquería!), hanging out with some of our close friends, reminiscing together as a family, and looking at pictures, etc. 

But alas, I shoved some Domino's pizza in my face due to lack of time, and today I got to do all the things I am here to do...meetings, building projects, conversations with my director (always so uplifting!), organizing files, communication about the English Program, putting together new workbooks with Dream Team students, and discussing options to maximize our programs. I tried all day to figure out how we could all come together to celebrate, but in the end, Selah had homework, Wes, Levi, and Harmony are exhausted from also helping at NOE all afternoon, Reggie has a big project he's working on, and I probably stink and need a shower. I couldn't feel more fulfilled.

Without even realizing it, I was able to celebrate our 1-year anniversary doing all the beautiful things God called me here to do. Our 2nd year of classes starts Monday, September 19th, and I couldn't be more excited to go into it breathing with my mind at peace (as opposed to last year, where I constantly felt a little scatter-brained! 🙂) and my heart swelling with the love of a Savior that is so much bigger than all of our human errors.

We get to end these last couple crazy weeks by leading worship at my director's daughter's wedding. She was 6 years old when I first met her in Morelia in 2005. To top it off, they are moving to Ottumwa, Iowa when they get back from their honeymoon, which happens to be the exact same city I gave my first ESL class to a group of Mexican adults while attending Central College in Pella, Iowa.

I get giddy when God does things like that. All I can do is smile sometimes when I see so clearly how much He loves me, someone who struggles to feel loved. I pray you are able to see God moving in your life and can feel His love for you. Great is Your faithfulness to me. From the rising sun to the setting sun, I will praise Your name because great is Your faithfulness to me. "Thank you" to all of you have helped make today possible. We are so grateful for your love and support, and can't wait to share with you more about all God is doing here in Morelia!

See lyrics from worship song “Promises” or “Promesas” by Maverick City Worship.

English: Promises by Maverick City Worship

Spanish: Promeses - Maverick City Worship

English Final Exams at NOE

Karlee Nichols 

On Monday, students trickled into the gym, one-by-one found their place at an open table, listened to instructions, took a deep breath, and began their one-hour final exam. After a year of language instruction, this exam will determine whether they will pass to the next level, take the recovery summer program course, or repeat this level again next year.

For nine months, I have been slowly trying to understand new systems, including the Mexican public and private schools and learn how NOE works to combat the flaws within those entities. I see how, for some, NOE is one of the only outlets they have outside of difficult family situations and broken educational systems.

On Wednesday, I watched students receive their final exams with tears of joy, even when passing with the lowest score possible to advance. Some will be taking a recovery course with the opportunity to re-take the final exam after four weeks of review and clarification. A few will have to repeat this level before moving on.

I wasn’t prepared for the emotion this process brought me as a teacher who had invested nine months into their lives. Yes, I have been teaching for many years and have deeply loved many students. Teaching low-income students in a region with low opportunity, though, caused me to view my role as their educator with much more long-term responsibility.

Friday, I watched as fourth-level students ranging from 12 – 60 years old excitedly walked across the stage to receive recognition for graduating from the NOE English program. Having experienced my first Dream Team process the week prior, I found myself praying constantly for students, often on the verge of tears thinking about how important these results and milestones will be for them.

As the students who will be entering my class in September came running up to me with excitement, telling me they passed and can’t wait to be in my class next year, I felt overwhelmingly blessed to be living out my dream and calling of teaching at NOE while teaching them about Jesus. Thank you, donors, for being a part of helping these students change their trajectory and allowing me the opportunity to know these beautiful souls.

An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. Proverbs 18:15

Visting the US Legally from Mexico: Know the facts!

To say I have been asked the question, “Why don’t they (referring to Hispanic people, who may or may not be Mexican) just come here legally?!” often is a vast understatement. After living in Mexico now for 8 months, my understanding of the legal entrance to the USA as a Mexican citizen specifically (I cannot speak for Central and South America) has grown exponentially.

Having grown up in the US middle class society, I have been humbled even greater as I learn more intimately why this political imbalance is so complicated.

In this article, I am in no way supporting illegal activity, but am presenting facts to help non-Mexican citizens understand the many layers to this process If you would like to learn more, please reach out.

Each year, NOE selects 12-13 students from their highest-level English class to participate in a one- month exchange program in the Portland, Oregon area. Before going, they must first obtain a USA visa from the USA General Consulate.

As an American citizen, if you wish to travel internationally, you will fill out an application, get a passport picture taken for about $15USD, schedule an interview a couple weeks out, have said interview with a passport agent, pay roughly $165USD, and receive your passport in the mail a few weeks later. You are then allowed to freely travel, with limited restrictions, to 185 countries worldwide temporarily. As an adult, your passport is valid for 10 years; 5 years as a child under 18.

As a Mexican citizen, for a 10-year passport, they will pay $140USD equivalent. This will allow them to temporarily travel to 162 countries but does NOT include the USA. To set foot in the USA, they must also obtain a US visa.

First, they must schedule an appointment. Currently, we have friends who recently scheduled their appointments for December 2024, almost 3 years in the waiting. Then, they fill out the application and pay the application fee of about $140USD.

The application does not just include basic information. They must also submit all social media accounts, report all income (including that of their parents), job descriptions, house ownership, a list of any family members that live in the US and their known location, education level, future plans, reason for travel, and any reports of illegal activity for any immediate family members. Each application fee is $160 USD.

The closest US Consulate in Guadalajara or Mexico City is four hours from Morelia. They must get their photos and fingerprints taken the day before, meaning an overnight stay. Then, an interview with a US consulate agent who has previously reviewed all your documentation and gathered information. Agents have full authority to deny a US visa for any reason without explanation. If rejected, they must wait a minimum of 6 months to re-apply, with every fee repeated (other than their passport, which they must obtain first before arriving to their visa appointment). Many are told not to bother re-applying unless their financial or education situation has changed dramatically. Without a business and tourism visa, travel to the US is not possible legally.

If approved, they can travel freely to and from the US for 10 years. This is not immigration and does not allow them to legally work. That is much lengthier and more expensive process. The total cost will be no less than $400USD per person. For a NOE student not on scholarship, factoring in 4 years of English and one year of conversation classes, it will add a minimum of $650+.

Minimum wage in Michoacán is $8.52US per day, with Morelia averaging less than $15 daily. Even with college degrees, it is common to make between $2.50-3.50USD an hour. Minors get paid so little that by the time gas or public transportation is factored, so little would remain, if anything, it isn’t worth their time.

To pay for English classes, even at VERY low rates, application fees, and basic logistics, this process is extremely expensive for a Mexican with a good job, let alone one with limited education and job opportunities. Money, time, resources, and family history are all factored elements, making NOE’s Dream Team success a powerful testimony for Morelian students.

Learning a New Language at 48: It's not impossible, but it's not easy!

Many years ago, I watched the movie Tarzan, where the guy was raised by apes. I was amazed at a scene in the movie where Tarzan is dressed extremely well and is handling business, with an English accent. Back then, I thought to myself, “That guy picked up the language quickly after being rescued!”

Over the past 8 months, I have been learning Spanish. Over the past 3 months, I have come to the conclusion that the part in the movie where Tarzan was handling business like a native is crap.

In a perfect world, I believed that I could be conversational in about 6 months. However, we don’t live in a perfect world. We live in a world where there are hundreds of distractions during the day and with a family of six, not much time actually exists for “poor little ole me.”

However, I am learning and loving it. My perception of 6 months has seriously turned into, “6 years… if I’m lucky.”

I’ve always been a believer that you can teach old dogs new tricks if the dog wants to learn. I do. I will learn. I can’t wait to communicate the love of Jesus without having to agonizingly, painstakingly struggle through the past-tense conjugation of “to send”.

Until then, I’ll continue to use hand gestures and Espanglish. The journey definitely isn’t boring!

Relationships, Relationships, Relationships: "I'll take a cow brain taco, please!"

In November, Selah and Levi (aka: Noche) went with some friends to Six Flags in Mexico City. When reading the online US reviews, I saw that it received a 3 out of 5 star rating. Comments showed this rating was due to cleanliness, lack of function of some of the rides, bathrooms that were closed or out of order, etc. Despite knowing this information, Levi and Selah went anyway and had a blast.

Mexico is a culture that is consumed by friendship. They are a family-centered, friend-centered, relationship-centered culture. At the same time, the U.S. is a more event-centered and time-centered culture.

Centro NOE has an exchange program, nick-named the “Dream Team”, a group of elite students who are chosen each year to live with local families in the US during the month of July to practice English and have exposure to the U.S. culture.

When I ask the former Dream Team students what they enjoy most about their experience in the U.S., their responses are almost ALWAYS event-centered. “I enjoyed going boating with my host family,” or doing this or that event. One of the beauties of living in the U.S. is having the financial means to do “stuff” and try new things. There are hobbies for every and any interest.

People are important here, and we are attempting to build relationships and enjoy new experiences in new ways whenever possible.

Last week, after having an extensive lesson about the different types of tacos during in my English lesson with my tutor and friend. We established that there were at least 12 taco types we had never tried. So, we established family night Taco Tuesdays.

In Mexico, life is much different. Money and resources are limited, so the focus is on the people with whom time is spent. While an American may give Six flags a 3 out of 5 rating due to the lack of cleanliness, a Mexican may give it a 5 out of 5 simply because they had an incredible experience because of who they were with, even if not all the bathrooms worked. 

I can’t help but think that if the roles were reversed and students from the U.S. came to Morelia for a month and were asked what they loved most, they would respond, “I loved spending time with the people!”

People are important here, and we are attempting to build relationships and enjoy new experiences in new ways whenever possible. Last week, after having an extensive lesson about the different types of tacos during in my English lesson with my tutor and friend. We established that there were at least 12 taco types we had never tried. So, we established family night Taco Tuesdays.

We can now officially say that we have tried cow brains, cow palette, cow tongue, cow forehead, and cow cheeks. This is known as “tacos de cabeza” or “head tacos”. Although it was a culinary experience, to say the least, the focus was on the people with whom we tried these things, not the actual event itself.

Relationships.Relationships.Relationships. 8 more tacos to go!

Tour de Amistad: Did we mention Mexico loves relationships? - Karlee - March 6, 2022

Each country celebrates what we call “Valentine’s Day” in its own way. In Mexico, it is called “The Day of Friendship and Love”. In my English classes, I try to incorporate US traditions that are different than those in Mexico. This was a necessary lesson for this day because, although romance and special dates do exist here for this day, there is a MUCH greater focus on giving gifts and doing kind things to and for your friends.

Many people get together as friend groups, staff, or their best friends instead of with their spouses or significant others. There also aren’t high expectations with gift giving, but rather with the time they get to spend together, honoring this friendship.

After class that night, Reggie and I were able to spend an hour with some of the Loma Libre staff, eating an AMAZING Tres Leches cake, but really reminiscing on how good God has been to us to give us such amazing friends with each other as a staff. We did go out for a special date just the two of us afterward, but we kept it simple with a nice supper and a walk down the “Callejón de Romance” (the Alley of Romance) downtown Morelia.

For 20+ years, Centro NOE has done what is called “The Friendship Tour”. Students and staff from each center gather for a special Saturday adventure playing games, worshiping, hearing a special message, but above all, getting to know each other outside their normal lives.

I didn’t realize how badly I needed a day like this! Reggie and I led worship, spoke to the group and each got to spend time with 7 different students for six hours, doing scavenger hunts, interviewing one another, playing games, and just hanging out, honoring the relationships God gives us. We deeply encourage others who read this to do the same with your youth someday!

Celebrating our Quinceañera

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Proverbs 31:30

The day after Selah was born, Reggie and I went for a walk down the hospital halls. We left our new daughter in the nursery to have some time to ourselves. As we rounded the final corner to return to our room, we heard a baby belting her cries with astounding lung capacity and impressive volume. We stopped, and I slowly looked at Reggie and said, “I think that one is ours.”

Selah did everything early…and very loudly. Not much has changed. Not wanting to do everything like everyone else, in true Selah fashion, her fiesta de 15 años (15th Birthday Party) did just that. Often, this party resembles that of a wedding. Flowers, a fancy dress, groomsmen (chambelanes), food, a fancy venue, dancing, a religious ceremony, and a reception. Mexico is 80% Catholic, so many of the roots of the traditions come from Catholic roots. We chose to simplify ours and intentionally combined the American and Mexican cultures into a Christian ceremony.

Decked out in beautiful sunflowers, white roses, vines, and rustic wood and stones that reminded us of western North Carolina, after Levi escorted Selah into the main room, Selah began the night by leading everyone in three worship songs, two in Spanish, one in English. The ceremony had three main pieces: worship, a message from Reggie with our good friend, Juan, translating, and the giving of special gifts.

During this ceremony, special friends and family were asked to provide special gifts to represent special ideas in Selah’s life. First, Zabdi Garcia, a NOE intern we met in September, presented Selah her final toy and delivered a beautiful speech about Selah’s childhood being a foundation for her womanhood and encouraged her to embrace those memories.

Next, Selah’s friend, Dana, presented Selah with her “high heels”, which in this case, was high-top tennis shoes. The shoes were purchased by Selah’s best friend and her family, Brooke (daugther of Mandi and Eric LaRowe) froms Brevard, NC. Dana shared a beautiful analogy about how shoes and friends have a lot in common and how Selah needs to continue “walking in her faith”.

Abby and Erick Garcia bought and presented Selah with a beautiful purity ring, explaining how God created us to live in purtiy until marriage because of God’s beautiful design for marriage.

Finally, our close friends, Melissa and Juan, presented Selah with a bilingual Bible and shared the importance of keeping her walk with Jesus the main priority in all she does and to live for His glory. We then took some extended time to gather around Selah to pray for her life as a woman.

To say the least, we were overwhelmed with love and gratitude to see so many people in our “village” who are going to be a key role during the next few years in Selah’s journey.

It is very common that, during the reception with dessert and dancing (in true American tradition, our Texan friend, Glenna, made Selah blueberry, apple, and peach American pies instead of cake!), the Quinceañera dances a special Waltz with her father. But to the surprise of all, after Selah and Reggie danced a choreographed beautiful waltz for 2 minutes, the song was interrupted by “Can’t Touch This”. Selah and Reggie then broke out into a fun dance and one-by-one the entire family joined with all of us having a nervous blast dancing together as a family!

As Selah reflected on the night, she wanted you all to know, “Overall, the night was amazing, and I really believe that Jesus was glorified through everything that happened. I’m so grateful for everyone who helped make it all happen and I thank the Lord for the amazing experience that helped me further integrate into the Mexican culture.”

We want to extend an enormous “¡Muchas gracias!” to those who have been a part of our journey raising Selah. We are so honored to have had you all in the seasons God has taken us through in Alabama, Minnesota, Tennessee, Iowa, North Carolina, Morelia, and everywhere in-between. It takes a village to raise a family, and although we may not live in the same village now, we couldn’t have done it without each member of each village in Selah’s 15 years.

Why We are Here: Reasons for Missions Part 4 of 5 - March 6, 2022

By Reggie Nichols

In 2007, I interviewed with Autumn Ridge Church in Rochester, MN. for the Pastor of High School Ministries position. Upon finishing the last interview, they asked if there was anything specific that would prevent the hiring process from moving forward if church leadership prevented me from doing something I felt called to do. Immediately, my response was, “short-term missions.”

Many times, when I traveled full-time speaking and leading worship, I witnessed people’s lives changed during a short-term mission experience. When people are exposed to different cultures, they begin to see life differently.

In 2003, after spending 6 weeks in Mexico, I re-entered the States and pulled over my vehicle just before the “Welcome to Texas” sign. Over the previous six weeks, I had experienced life like I had never experienced it before. I had witnessed people who had nothing but had everything. I watched a young man who couldn’t get a job spend an entire day on the porch with his grandmother. He was doing something at a young age that most people wouldn’t take the time to do until retirement.

I watched young children spend entire days teaching themselves to breakdance on a large cardboard box in the middle of a dirt street. I saw people laugh and give one another their full attention when talking and be 100% comfortable in silence by just being in the presence of people they love. I saw mutual respect among people and a passion for living each moment to the fullest.

During that stop at the border, while looking at the “Welcome to Texas” sign, I felt like I was at a crossroads. One road led to me back to the idea that happiness is mostly found in “stuff” and experiences; the other road to the idea that happiness is found in “people”. The moment was life-changing as I recognized that God was working in me and my understanding of His creation during the previous 6 weeks. I would dare say that He did more work “in me” than “through me” over that time.

One of our roles with NOE is to help facilitate small-group mission trips. We are excited to help people in possibly seeing life from a different perspective. We have a passion to expose others to what God can do “in you” verses what God can do “through you”. This is reason #4 for why we are here.

Why We are Here: 5 reasons for missions outside the USA – Part 3 of 5 - January 16, 2022

By Reggie

Reason #3: God has blessed us with experiences and knowledge that could best be used within a culture that doesn’t have the same approaches, skill sets, or experiences.

“Am I called to missions?” is not the right question because all lovers of Jesus are called to missions. The right question is, “Dear God, where?”

In the Spring of 2005, we saw God working. Karlee was invited to be a part of His work and saw first-hand the impact NOE International was having on the children and adults they served. As we have attempted to serve Jesus intentionally and intimately over the last 16 years, we asked ourselves, “Where can I be best used with the gifts, talents, and abilities with which God has blessed us?” Little did we know that over time we would gain skill sets and knowledge due to simply growing older and our life experiences.

Life is to be pursued with passion, never avoiding difficulties but learning and growing from each obstacle faced. Some of the areas of expertise with which God has blessed us during our journey with Him have been: philanthropy and non- profit establishment and service, language teaching, youth programming, children programming, Bible teaching, discipleship, entrepreneurship, team recruitment, team development, employee retention, development of organizational systems, business administrative practice knowledge and application, marketing, and developing healthy, spirit-led, Jesus-centered work environments.

The United States is a plethora of evidenced-based knowledge. Companies have business plans and strategies. Research is conducted and studied, changes are initiated, and results are again studied to gain knowledge on the most efficient and beneficial processes to achieve a desired result.

“We don't choose what we will do for God; He invites us to join Him where He wants to involve us.” Henry T. Blackaby, Experiencing God, 2007.

“Where can I be best used with the gifts, talents, and abilities with which God has blessed me?” Our answer is, “Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico through NOE International, the place that is now our home.”

A Normal Day: As if "Normal" were possible yet! - January 16, 2022

Many have been asking us what life looks like now that we have transitioned a bit. It barely scratches the surface, but here is a quick glimpse!

Mondays, Wednesday, and Friday
5:30 or 6:00 am – wake up
6:45 – leave for school
7:00 – Selah and Levi start school
        - Wes and Harmony listen to Adventures in Odyssey audio story 7:45 – Wes and Harmony start school; Parent returns home to get ready
8:00 – Eat and get ready for day
8:45 – Karlee English Lessons prep
        - Reggie study Spanish 4 hrs. per day
9:45 – Leave for NOE and prep classes
11:00 – Karlee Teach English Class
12:15 – 1:45 – Karlee Admin meetings, English lesson prep, run errands - Reggie prep lunch, clean house, do laundry and work on house projects
2:00 – Kids finish school; get picked up
2:30 – Arrive home and prepare for afternoon activities
2:45 or 3:00 – eat lunch together and discuss day (Americans’ supper time routine)
4:15 – leave for NOE
5:00 – Karlee teach English class; Reggie assistant (to help students and learn more Spanish)
        - Selah and Levi attend homework help at NOE; Wes and Harmony work on homework together
6:00 – Karlee teach conversation class (Reggie and Selah assist)
7:00 – Clean classroom and head home OR help with Un Espacio Para Ti weekly youth group until 8:30. Clean-up to follow.

Evenings are spent working on homework (sometimes up to 3 or 4 hours per day) and prepping for the next school day.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are concentrated language study and practice days and are also used to prep for weekend events or special NOE events, such as Podcast filming and editing, donor retention, worship practice, etc. 

¡Feliz Navidad y Feliz Año Nuevo! (Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!) - January 16, 2022

The Garcia Family, along with their three sons (Dany, Emanuel, and Erick), and their two daughters-in-law (Breisy and Abby) have been involved with NOE for over 15 years. NOE is part of their family.

Bety and Luis are also real estate agents and assisted us in the purchase of our home. Dany is a close friend, and Reggie is helping him and his brother, Erick, produce a podcast about people who live Incredible Lives (Vidas Increíbles). Emanuel just recently finished his medical program and serves as a physician a couple hours from Morelia. His wife, Breisy, is a dentist. In December, we had the honor of leading worship at their wedding. Erick is the NOE Vida West and Onlie class director, and Abby teaches elementary school English classes at NOE. All three Garcia sons are NOE graduates from the English program.

This year, we spent la Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) with about 40 of their family members: Aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, etc. Fellowship, a chocolate exchange, dancing, a midnight feast, and warm embraces from new friends. We were up until 3:30am bringing in Jesus’ birth!

Christmas Day was spent opening our stockings from Grandma and Grandpa and playing board games all day. It was a great way to spend our first Christmas in Morelia – Thank you, Garcia Family!

While Reggie and I went to San Antonio, Texas to sell our two vehicles and trailer we used to get our possessions and selves to Morelia, the kids stayed with some friends of ours, Glenna and Gabo, that live out in the countryside, just outside of Morelia. They have two children, ages 4 and 2, so they spent many hours singing, dancing, watching fun movies, and helping Glenna with the house and kiddos. They played LOTS of games and had a lot of fun relaxing outside the city.

Our new year was a bit calmer, as Mexico normally spends it with family. We stayed up until midnight watching “It’s a Wonderful Life”, playing games, and praying for the new year. On New Year’s Day, we looked at pictures from 2021 and read our thankful jar notes. Happy New Year and thank you for being a part of our journey!

We are excited to see what God is going to do in 2022!

Financial Update - December 5, 2021

Financial Update Looking at 2022 and beyond By the end of December, we hope to have all our one-time refurnishing the home expenses completed! We also hope to sell our vehicles and trailer to purchase vehicles with Mexican plates, which will make traveling throughout the country easier. Once all of this is in place, we will be able to fully focus on all aspects of the immigration process, which will have financial considerations, too.

To date, we are still seeking $1,650 in monthly support or committed annual donors to reach 100% funded. We would then use all non-monthly contributions toward our ministry budget, which would help local families or NOE programs. We are hoping to begin our over-and-above ministry fund in 2023 or before.

Please consider a monthly or consistent annual donation that will help us reach our goal and continue our ministry in Morelia. Thank you! 

Christmas Plans and Wishes - December 5, 2021

Karlee

Christmas Plans and Wishes The latest updates hot chocolate, listened to Christmas music, and see Christmas lights hung sporadically throughout the streets. Downtown is beautifully decorated with dazzling lights. We hope to keep our tradition of surprise caroling visits to our friends very alive, although we will dearly miss our Junco Lane and Ilahee Hills communities! Although we will definitely not be having a white Christmas, we hope to adopt some new traditions this year.

Christmas here is a lot more like Thanksgiving in the US. On Christmas Eve, family and friends gather for a huge feast. The Catholic community often goes to a midnight mass, celebrating the birth of their Savior. The Christian community often has a Christmas events and services. Gifts aren’t very common here, either. Some have adopted giving of gifts if they have influence from the US, but usually Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) is about being with family, good food, and Jesus’ birth.

On January 6th, children put out shoes for the Wise Men to deliver gifts to baby Jesus. They leave children small gifts of candy or small items and toys. This year, we will be spending time with new friends on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s. Downtown Morelia, December 2021.

Many friends have asked us what we plan to do for Christmas this year, assuming we will be returning to the States to celebrate. In order to help the kids adapt and help make this feel like home, we have been encouraged to stay for major holidays for the first 1-2 years. So far, we have experienced our first Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), an American Thanksgiving, three birthdays, and soon, we will have experienced our first Mexican Christmas.

Although many traditions are different, there are many similarities, too. We were able to purchase our first artificial tree and had a special night decorating with our favorite ornaments we kept. We drank hot chocolate, listened to Christmas music, and see Christmas lights hung sporadically throughout the streets. Downtown is beautifully decorated with dazzling lights. We hope to keep our tradition of surprise caroling visits to our friends very alive, although we will dearly miss our Junco Lane and Ilahee Hills communities!

Although we will definitely not be having a white Christmas, we hope to adopt some new traditions this year. Christmas here is a lot more like Thanksgiving in the US. On Christmas Eve, family and friends gather for a huge feast. The Catholic community often goes to a midnight mass, celebrating the birth of their Savior. The Christian community often has a Christmas events and services.

Gifts aren’t very common here, either. Some have adopted giving of gifts if they have influence from the US, but usually Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) is about being with family, good food, and Jesus’ birth. On January 6th, children put out shoes for the Wise Men to deliver gifts to baby Jesus. They leave children small gifts of candy or small items and toys.

This year, we will be spending time with new friends on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s.

Why are we here? 5 reasons for missions outside the USA – Part 2 of 5

Reggie
A personal story: Growing up, my sister and I were sort of free-range kids. It’s not that our parents let us do whatever we wanted to do, it’s just that they had responsibilities when they continuously began and tried new businesses, giving us freedom to explore our world while they were working. We knew our boundaries, and, for the most part, attempted to represent them well within the freedom we were given. I watched my parents experience adventure, failures, and successes. I was able to learn as I observed. I was able to make mental notes of things to do and not do if I ever began businesses of my own. I asked my dad a few years ago how much of what we wanted to do went into their decision-making when it came to vacations and his response was epic, “Your mother and I did what we wanted to do and you guys came along for the ride.” The statement was very John Eldredge-like (adventure to live).

I had all the opportunities I needed to be successful. I had entrepreneurial parents who experienced an adventurous life and placed a deep entrepreneurial spirit within me. We never went hungry. I always had the clothes I needed when I needed them. I got a motorcycle at the age of 14 and a truck at the age of 16. Reason 2 for why we are here: Not everyone has the same opportunities for success in life.

In Mexico, most people live day to day. They shop at the market because the food is cheap, and their meals consist of tacos (albeit Mexican tacos are NOT a step down in diet. 2 words: al Pastor). Karlee and I were recently sitting in the living room of a family. The family asked us to play a role of honor for their daughter’s 15th Birthday celebration. During our discussion of the daughter, who has, since our arrival, become active within the NOE program, it became obvious that her education is the only way out of the difficulties the family faces. The only opportunity she has in life to escape the daily struggle is through education. She is now involved in a beauty program through NOE and involved in learning English. These tools increase her opportunities in life by breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

Far too often, as I lived in the States, I took for granted my opportunities. “If I work harder, I can find success.” In other cultures, sometimes that simply is not the case. Because of the experiences and gifts God has given Karlee and me, we are able to use those for His glory within another culture to help break the bondage of poverty with the adults and youth we serve.

He’s Just Getting Started: Preparing for Longevity

Notice that the stiffest tree is most easily cracked, while the bamboo and willow survive by bending with the wind. - Bruce Lee, referenced by Bruce Olsen, Bruchko

Throughout our journey here, we have received many questions and comments about how long we plan to be in here. Many assume we will only be here for a year or two. Many are surprised to hear we are not homeschooling. Many advised us not to sell our home “…in case it doesn’t work out”. Although these assumptions and concerns are not ill-willed, we feel God has called to Morelia long-term. We feel God is telling us to help NOE further develop the programs they have already done such an incredible job building already and further reach Morelia for Christ. As in any urban and developing nation, to say the least, there is a lot of work yet to be done.

We have become increasingly aware of what has sent other missionaries home early. Lack of finances, children, health, inability to adapt to the culture, inability to learn the language, marital issues, loneliness, feelings of ineffectiveness, unsupportive family members, and safety to name a few.

As we approached our transition to Morelia, we focused on creating mentalities of longevity. When a new situation presents itself (which is roughly six times a day currently), we do not allow ourselves to think, “Why can’t they just do it like we do it?” or “Well, this is weird/stupid/strange/ridiculous!” Instead, recognizing that there is ALWAYS a reason, we’ve learned to ask the right question to the right people – it’s our challenge to figure it out…and adapt to those schemes that are culturally acceptable and healthy.

It doesn’t mean we can’t keep some of our own traditions and habits, but it does mean that criticism and frustration cannot be allowed to seep into our thoughts and conversations.

As stated in 1 Corinthians 4:13, “I can do all things in Christ who gives me strength.” This doesn’t limit God to only familiar environments or things only in own language/culture or when it is convenient or comfortable.

Staying in God’s Word, creating strict budgets, physical exercise, date nights, weekly conversations with American friends, outings with new friends, intentional job training, and asking reputable good-hearted people to help you figure it all out are all ways we are preparing ourselves for longevity, always focused on God’s calling for us here in Morelia.

I’d love to take this opportunity to give you a list of things we have successfully learned how to do that are different than what we were used to while living in the States. This is just for day-to-day functionality and doesn’t begin to touch all we are learning for our jobs at NOE. We focus on the victories, not the failures or how much we have yet to learn. Please be assured each of these required full conversations, training, and/or hours of investigation and often failed attempts.

- Drive from point A to point B without being jostled about by large speed bumps on every block; make a U-turn in heavy traffic; know which lane to be in; anticipate/follow traffic lights

- Put a screw into a concrete wall to hang a picture - Pay for propane, water, cell phone bill, and garbage pickup

- Learn how to navigate intersections when suddenly three lane traffic become six lane traffic

- Avoid motorcyclists who have no known traffic rules

- Order at a restaurant, receive the food you desired, and pay the bill

- How to properly dispose of toilet paper (not in the toilet)

- How to install a water filter into your kitchen sink

- Make purchases and coordinate deliveries

- Find mail under the vehicle in the garage

- Adjust to eating lunch at 2:30 and supper at 9pm.

- Find the best exchange rates - Mentally convert pesos to dollars within seconds

- Mentally convert kilometers to miles…not in seconds

- Brush your teeth without using water from the sink

- Remember to turn on the water heater 20 minutes before you need to shower

- Kids: make friends with limited language skills

- Kids: Convince others that you totally know what’s going on in a conversation using strategic facial expressions

Answered Prayers-Prayer Requests-Financial Update Nov 7, 2021

Answered Prayer

• We are moved into our new home, have purchased mostly everything we need, and feel very settled.

• Friends and trusting realtors and notaries along the way to help us in the home-purchasing process.

• NOE Primero, finally purchased, was able to open on October 11th after 9 months of renovations and almost 2 decades of renting.

• Karlee’s English classes are going well and she is getting to know her 31 students more and more.

• Reggie’s conversation classes are going well and is getting to know his 15 students better, allowing to transition his class topics to deeper discussion topics.

• Reggie is set to start language learning November 18th! • The kids are finding friends and youth groups to be involved in.

• No one has gotten sick in any fashion.

Prayer Requests

• Language learning for Reggie and the kids

• Reggie as he begins digging deeper into the immigration process to receive 1-year temporary resident Visas

• Continued growth in the relationships we are forming with NOE staff and students

• Growth for our fundraising to reach 100% funded with additional funding for extended NOE ministry opportunities

• Sale of our vehicles in Texas in December as we travel to and from Texas. This will allow us to buy vehicles with Mexican plates.

• Continued development of ministry within the English and conversation classes we are already leading

Financial Update

Although statistically speaking 20% of a missionary’s budget comes from one-time, non-monthly donations, it can be difficult to depend on this income long-term. Therefore, the goal is to live exclusively off monthly donations and use non-monthly annual contributions only for ministry to bless others. To do this, we would need $1,800 per month to reach 100% funded monthly commitments for our proposed annual budget.

Will you joyfully commit to give a monthly donation? If a monthly donation is not your preferred option, will you commit to an annual end-of-the-year or beginning-of-the-year contribution?

Anything that surpasses our proposed budget will go toward a ministry fund that will help grow NOE programs and assist NOE students. Areas of needed ministry include but are not limited to: NOE student scholarships, teacher training, student retreats, relationship building discipleship events, and one-on-one mentoring. We would love for you to journey with us and directly change the lives of those we serve. God’s just getting started!

Why are We Here? 5 reasons for missions outside the USA – Part 1 of 5 Nov 7, 2021

On my birthday, November 2nd, annually, the Mexico festival of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) occurs. This year, some of our family observed this tradition as we traveled to three different cities to experience the different city cultural festivities. What a great experience! We spent intentional quality time with friends, experienced the differences of three separate communities, and tried new foods and drinks from each place.

As we walked through the ornately decorated graveyards while observing families celebrating the memories of loved ones that had passed, Said (see left) explained that many indigenous people believe that their past loved one comes back for one night each year during this festival. Although they find security in this belief, there is no biblical truth within it. Guadalupe is a significant influence in Mexico (belief in an apparition of Virgin Mary that occurred 5 times in the 1500s). Within Mexican Catholicism, there is an integration of non-biblical influence. At times, prayers will be offered to Saints, such as the Virgin Guadalupe. It might be said that there is a heavy Christian influence in Mexico, however, many times, more faith is found in the church and in the Saints than in Jesus. Of course, there are some Catholic churches, maybe many, who focus on Jesus. However, that is not always true.

Through the guidance of Christian Pastors and leaders, God moves the hearts of His creation toward Him.

Acts 20:28 - Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.

Sure, the above is a very generalized statement and there are exceptions; however, God used the disciples to begin spreading His truth and today, according to estimates from the Joshua Project, 60% of the world’s population have communities of believing Christians. However, 40% of the world does not have direct Bible-believing Christian influence.

Michoacan, our state, has a population of 3,487,151. Of those people, 95.12% profess to be Catholic, 1.7% profess to be Evangelical Protestants, 1.02% non-Evangelicals, and 2.16% consider themselves Atheist, other, or unspecified. The United States, which holds approximately 2% of the world’s population, has 25% of the world’s population of Christian pastors and leaders. This speaks loudly of the Christian influence within the US. Because of this influence, the US is known as a country who gives and is the backbone of many ministries located throughout the world.

However, the world needs MORE. The world needs more: people to say yes to missions and to be willing to move into areas that do not have a Christian influence. The world needs more people to give financially and through short-term time spent for the cause of the spreading of the gospel. The world needs more ministries reaching into the over 7,000 unreached people groups (Joshua Project) within the world.

Why are we here? Because the world, Mexico, Morelia, Ejidal Ocolusen (our neighborhood), and Acamapichtli (our street) need more Bible-believing, Jesus-loving Christian leaders and teachers who are willing to say “yes” to the world’s needs outside the USA. It’s a joy to be a part of that journey. That is REASON #1 why we are here.

- Reggie

The Daily Nichols - September 30th, 2021

Deuteronomy 20:4 “For the LORD your God is He who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.”

“I am the Warrior and I am with you.”

These are the words that our friend Jesse felt impressed to pass on to us, specifically while praying for our family and our transition to Morelia and all He has planned for us. Our friend emphasized that God’s plan isn’t just in what we do, but in being. Our obedience to come to Morelia and exemplify His love will speak to others, so we don’t feel like we have to have it all together and do everything perfectly. The battle is much bigger than our tasks.

This message from our friend came shortly after a soon-to-be missionary in France, who is only 8 years old, requested we sing her favorite worship song “See a Victory” that has the following lyrics:

The weapon may be formed, but it won't prosper
When the darkness falls, it won't prevail
'Cause the God I serve knows only how to triumph
My God will never fail

I'm gonna see a victory
For the battle belongs to You, Lord

There's power in the mighty name of Jesus
Every war He wages He will win
I'm not backing down from any giant
'Cause I know how this story ends

You take what the enemy meant for evil
And You turn it for good

God is constantly reminding us that He has already won the battle and that through Jesus we can do much more than we can do without Him.

OUR ARRIVAL
When we arrived on the afternoon of September 13th, we were greeted with open arms from two of our directors at NOE to help unload our vehicles. This hospitality has not stopped, as we have been invited to spend time with individuals, families, youth groups, and churches. Selah and Levi have already gone to a birthday party for a friend of a friend, and Reggie and I will be singing in a wedding in December! We have only been here for less than two weeks, and I am reminded of why I fell in love with the Mexican culture so many years ago.

We want to extend a HUGE "THANK YOU!!" for all your support through prayers, encouragement, and finances throughout this process. To say these two weeks have been a bit of a whirlwind is quite the understatement, but we are overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who makes missions and NOE possible. We have felt so much love from friends and donors in the States, NOE staff and students, and our new community in Morelia since our arrival.

KARLEE AT NOE
Last week I, Karlee, took a dive into the deep end! After a couple quick training meetings, I began my first online English class. I quickly realized I needed to take them up on the offer to find an assistant, which made my 2nd class much smoother! This week I will also start preparing for my three in-person classes which start Monday, October 4th. Please be praying for my prep time and that I can balance everything going on with the family and NOE.

REGGIE’S NEW ROLE
We have been experiencing the inevitable role reversal that we have anticipated for a few months now! While I am in training, lesson prepping, and teaching, Reggie has taken over organizing our finances and new family systems, Visa applications, obtaining new cell phones and numbers, school for the kids (I’ll explain more of that in a bit), laundry, meal prep, and cleaning the house – all while spending a couple hours a day on language learning! His confidence and knowledge of Spanish improves little by little with each conversation, which his exciting to see! His list of questions also grows, but that means he is being forced to take notice of things he hasn’t had to learn in the past. We are all very excited to see where he will be in a few months! At the beginning of October, he will be helping to facilitate an English conversation class at NOE with students who are preparing to go to Portland, Oregon for the month of July 2022. Please be praying for Reggie as he finds a new balance, can improve his Spanish comprehension and speaking skills and prepares documentation for our temporary resident Visa status.

SCHOOL FOR THE KIDS
Last week brought new challenges and growing pains for our Fab Four as they got their evaluations back from their new school, Colegio Libertad, a private Christian school in Morelia. We met with the director of the school, the director for each section of the school (elementary and middle school) and met their teachers. We also got their uniforms and (most) books arranged, along with their online platform, as some of their schooling will be virtual at least through December. Wes and Harmony started virtual school classes on Friday but will start a hybrid style (one week in person, one week virtual) on October 4th. Selah and Levi began in-person classes Monday, as they were allowed to attend in-person with those who need a little extra help, meaning they don’t have to be in front of a computer while learning a new language – yay! Day #1 was tough and emotional, but after the hump of emotions passed, they have begun gathering a game plan for how to approach their homework. Colegio Libertad has an English program, which is ironic, as they will “study” English with their peers. They will at least get a little bit of a brain break! Please be praying for their language skills, that they can make good friends quickly, and that their teachers will be helpful and understanding throughout this process.  

FINANCIAL UPDATE
As of today, we are 93% supported for our January to forever long-term proposed budget! Our non-monthly donations were able to fully support our transition and the rest of 2021. We feel very confident that God will provide as we dig in deeper to His ministry here in Morelia. We are also in the process of buying a house, which has been a big learning curve, but an overall positive experience so far. We were also able to lead worship for the all-teachers/staff event to celebrate NOE’s re-opening after a year and a half of empty buildings. We will also be leading worship for the NOE Primero inauguration on October 9th, as we see all the hard work in the mass renovation of the original NOE be revealed.

Again, we have felt the love of fellow NOE real estate friends who have helped us through this process. NOE directors and friends feel very positive that this is a good neighborhood with a good community and the house is a solid investment. If all goes well, we will have a home that we can grow into as a family and do ministry in! We will keep you posted! Please be praying this process goes smoothly and that we are approved as foreigners to buy a home in Mexico.

That’s the bulk of it! In about 3-4 weeks we will have somewhat of an idea of what a "normal" may look like for us, but your prayers are coveted as we figure it all out.

See attached pictures:
- Karlee’s first day of teaching at NOE
- (2) The view from Karlee’s classroom of the city
- The kids on their first day of school at Colegio Libertad

We are home! September 13, 2021

We were able to safely arrive in Morelia around 12:30 central standard time, welcomed by two of our directors! We quickly unloaded our vehicles and a few things in our trailer before heading over to Brian, our NOE director's home where we ate American hamburgers and hotdogs with his wife and daughter. We ended the night organizing our little Air B&B and relaxing. 

What a sweet day it was to see all of our hard work land us in Morelia! Our internet is a bit spotty here right now, but we hope to remedy that soon. We will update a bit more once I do t have to send these from my phone.  We lift our hearts in praise to our Creator for being with us each step of the way. 

We love you guys! Thank you for journeying with us!

Why Missions?

We are overwhelmed by the love and support we have received from friends, family, and churches who believe in us. The average American Christian gives only 1 penny a day to global missions (Yohannan, 2009, Revolution in World Missions, 142); however, we have experienced the opposite. Seeing so many people sacrifice along this journey to see the love of God shared has moved us. On one occasion, a family, through tear-filled eyes, made the statement, “We can’t travel outside the country (due to illness), so we want you to go for us.” This family didn’t have a regular income due to illness and life’s circumstances. As we prayed together, I thought to myself, “This is the widow’s mite!” To have the responsibility to carry the gospel to others who can’t carry it themselves is humbling.

We have been called to disciple and educate the students and families in Morelia, Mexico. Many of those living in Morelia live on less than Mexico’s minimum wage of only $7.08 per day. The graduation rate of the state where Morelia is located is 27%. Through the work of NOE, graduation rate increases to 86% for those within their program (1100 children at the time of this article). This is accomplished through a process of discipleship where those involved see the love of Christ throughout it all.

Globally, with only limited education, specifically less thandoesn’t graduate high school. We know that money is not the answer. However, each student who graduates has a greater ability to avoid poverty and to rescue his/ family from generationally not being able to eat. This ability, when given through the process of discipleship that deeply shows and shares the love of Christ, helps reinforce that God provides and God rescues.

Thank you for investing in us as we help transform the area in which we are called. As you have given and continue to give, know you are generationally transforming families in a way where they no longer must survive on $7.08 per day. a High School Diploma, a person has limited ability to earn income above minimum wage. According to www.payrollmexico.com, those who have degrees and attain positions in sales, IT, management, technician, customer service, or administrative positions earn about three times minimum wage. The median income for those with a post-secondary education is approximately 20x greater than someone who doesn’t graduate high school.

We know that money is not the answer. However, each student who graduates has a greater ability to avoid poverty and to rescue his/ family from generationally not being able to eat. This ability, when given through the process of discipleship that deeply shows and shares the love of Christ, helps reinforce that God provides and God rescues.

Thank you for investing in us as we help transform the area in which we are called. As you have given and continue to give, know you are generationally transforming families in a way where they no longer must survive on $7.08 per day.

Reggie 8/16/21 - Huh? Water cooler talk, what is that?

July 13th I said goodbye to something very simply that my world taught me is true... a good man has a steady job to take care of his family. Problem...what if God calls me to do something else other than the norm? How did Peter and John care for their families when Jesus called them to travel with Him? Am I reckless?

Over the last month, God has rocked my world! After spending 3 weeks of intentional time with family, I was able to settle back into reality and thought the question I would ask myself would be, "What have I done?" However, that's not what I asked myself. Instead, my question was, "What awesome adventure lies awaiting for me over the horizon?" 

We have spent the last 7 days at The Center for Intercultural Training and what I have learned is the difference between the Western perspective (my perspective) and pretty much most of the rest of the world. Most of the world, specifically where God has called me to serve, does not think like me. I am "time" focused, the area where we are called to serve is "event" focused. I care that an event starts on time. The culture in which I will serve cares more about building relationships along the way to that event which may cause the event to begin an hour late. In my previous professional roles, I saved time through efficiency and staying focused on the task. The culture in which I will serve considers relationships and conversation to be a part of the process. Water cooler talk is built into the plan because relationships are important.

Our family read through Ephesians this weekend and I was reminded that God has created us to live in harmony with one another. He has created us to be SOOO in love with Him because what He has done and who He is that our cups (that are full of the realization of love from God) naturally overflows into the lives of those around us. God's plan is for me to live life with others, through which He is to be glorified. Why? Because our battle is against the spiritual world and we can't do it alone. 

So, as I travel to another country, I am entering a culture where relationships are important. The culture emphasizes it. The events emphasize it. I recognize the blessings I have received over the last 7 years of living in Brevard. I have tremendous, God-fearing, Jesus-loving, family-centered friends that I know love me. In my 20's I had (and still believe I have from Alabama) a group of friends who would drop anything at any time if I had a need. They would driving 1000 miles to help me fix a flat if I asked them because I was broken down on the side of the road. I continue to have friends now who would do that same thing. Matthew, Matt, Shea...and a heap of others have been there to encourage me, counsel me, pray with me, and get beaten at Rook and Settlers. Wow, I love those guys. I thank God for those relationships.

Looking forward, I am thankful that God has called me to a culture of relationships! I both thank God for the ones I have and also for the ones I will have. I can't wait for the water cooler talk, but this time, in Spanish...

Thank you all for loving us and believing in us.

Reggie

John 15:13

The Daily Nichols - The Countdown is ON! - June 27, 2021

Victor Hugo, famous French activist and author of Les Miserables, wrote, “The future has many names: The Lazy call it: The Impossible. The fearful refer to it as: The Unknown. But the Courageous embrace it by saying: ‘This is my Challenge.’” - The God Ask by Steve Shadrach

The Countdown
Days of work Reggie has left: 11
Days left in Brevard, NC: 47
Days until we leave for training: 47
Days until pre-field training is complete: 74
Total funding raised for moving expenses and first year still needed: 58%
Total funding for on-going monthly support still needed for year 2 and beyond: 90% of total budget

God has blessed us so much throughout this journey so far, and we know that He will continue to do so as we move forward with our calling to Morelia/NOE International and the Challenge to raise 100% of our support in only 5 ½ months.

The Timeline
*Official NOE Meeting to discuss working with them full-time: January 14, 2021

*Karlee starts sorting/organizing/purging/donating sections of our home: early March 2021

*Receive acceptance from ACCI, our sending agency: April 7, 2021 Send out first mailing announcing our calling to full-time missions: April 14, 2021

*Sell our home: June 2, 2021

*Reggie’s final day of work: July 13, 2021 Leave for training: August 7, 2021

*End training: September 3, 2021

*Hopeful day to leave for Morelia: September 6/7, 2021

*NOE starts new Fall semester: September 20, 2021

We have had a lot of people ask us about our timeline, then respond with shock that we plan to leave so soon. Since beginning this process, we have learned that the majority of missionaries spend 18-24 months raising support. As we pray about our calling to work with NOE International, we see the need to arrive sooner than later. Coming off the tail-end of a world-wide pandemic that left many nations devastated, NOE is prepping to re-open their doors for the first time since March/April 2020. Only 40% of their students had access to computers, meaning there are many families (both those who were able to continue virtually and those who were not) who are anxiously awaiting their opportunity to get back to normal, back to a life with community and the programs that NOE offers, back to a family who gives them hope in Jesus and sought to love them throughout these tough times.

Each Fall, NOE’s semester begins the Monday after Mexico’s Independence Day on September 16th. Our goal is to have arrived and be in a home (even if it is temporary until we can purchase a home) in time to allow us to be involved at the beginning of their new Fall semester, celebrating with the NOE staff as they open their doors once again to reinitiate their ministries that speak life into the communities they serve.

In order to “launch”, we need to be funded 90% with pledged on-going monthly commitments that will support us for years to come. We know it is a big “God Ask”, but we truly believe that God fully funds those He calls with the help of the global church.

We are so grateful for those who have committed to come alongside us in this journey! We could not do this without you! We ask you to actively journey with us and help us reach our goal of arriving in Morelia in September, please click on this link: https://www.adventive.ca/all-project-list/reggie-karlee-nichols/

We would love to schedule a Zoom meeting or in-person time to discuss our future and how you can be involved! Please call or email us to get it on the calendar – we’d love to share more and catch up with you!

Family Website: nicholsmorelia.com

Reggie: nichols.reggie@gmail.com - (828) 556-9134
Karlee: karleednichols@gmail.com - (828) 556-9132

The Daily Nichols - Sunday, May 30, 2021

Welcome to the first edition of "The Daily Nichols", an update from the Nichols family about our journey to the mission field!

The spiritual, emotional, and financial support we have received so far has been an incredible experience for us.  We want to give a huge "Thank You!" to all of you for prayers, words of encouragement, questions about how to help us, love you've poured out on our children, and financial donations that are helping make this journey a reality. 

To say the very least, it has been an eventful month! We would like to keep you updated with the events of this past month and give you a timeline for our summer. 

Many of you received our first newsletter we sent out toward the end of April (see attached).  Since then, we have received and accepted an offer on our home, which was an enormous answer to prayer, as we didn't even have to put it on the market! We will close on our house on June 4th. 

After a 12-day journey to Minnesota and Iowa to visit family and friends and share at my hometown church/VBS, we will be back in the Brevard, NC area living in a section of our church building until we head out to our month-long field training in Union Hill, NC (https://cit-online.org/) on August 7th.

The kids finished their potentially final day of American school on May 27th, which came with mixed emotions for everyone.  Selah, Weslee, and Harmony will be on a swim team all summer, and Levi looks forward to working out and "bulking up" during the girls' swim practices.  I (Karlee) look forward to a few weeks of simple living as we visit friends and family and enjoy our time in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Reggie's final day of work is July 13th, and he also looks forward to some special time with Levi and some family men's trips with both the Nichols and Schulz men in July and August.  

Many people have been asking how we have been and how they can help.  

- Logistically, we are moving forward and making progress.  We will be loading up a 6'x12' trailer with selected items from our home that Reggie and I will drive down to Mexico with our van.  It has been a learning experience to purge at this level! We are very grateful to have made it to this point and are SO thankful for friends who have helped with organizing and yard sales along the way! 

- Please continue to pray for each of us emotionally as we will have many "lasts" in the next few weeks.  Each child is processing the change in their own way; some days are easier than others when it comes to saying "goodbye" to the life they have loved here in Brevard. 

- Please also pray for language learning (and motivation for some!) as we approach the reality of the daily need for Spanish skills! 

Our greatest need currently is financial support.  We have currently raised 27% of our first year's budget, but are at less than 1% of our on-going monthly financial commitments.  With both of us seeking to work with NOE International 100%, donor support both in one-time donations and monthly support will be a determining factor for our launch date (shooting for September upon completing our training on September 3rd if we are 90% funded) and our ability to give of our time to ministry once we are there.  If you haven't already, please partner with us! Even $5-10 a month is enough to make a huge long term impact in our lives and those we serve. We'd love for you to partner with us and be a part of what God is doing in Morelia! 

https://www.adventive.ca/all-project-list/reggie-karlee-nichols/

Throughout this process we have been learning the true meaning of Philippians 4:6 that says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Selling our possessions and home, starting our fundraising process, leaving a business and professional steady job, and helping our children through a major transition with a lot of unknowns has caused us to constantly keep ourselves and each other in check about trusting that God has control of this process and that He will be glorified through it all! 

We would love to share more with you about our transition, NOE International, and how you can support us.  Please don't hesitate to reach out to us via email, text, or our website.  Thank you again, and we look forward to sending you another update soon!

Karlee (and Reggie)