Sabado

Saturday, April 25^th , 2015

Departure Day.

How did it get to be time to go home already!  As we stood at the beginning of the week, we knew that there wold be lots for us to do and we worked hard during the week to accomplish what we could. We had an amazing team that fit into so many areas to make so many things happen.  We covered many areas – the workshop for the teachers who appreciated the new ideas for their classrooms, reading testing of the new kids, updating of the art room, help in the classroom, helping in the medical clinic with ailing kids, all the crafts, replacing and updating some important light fixtures, assistance with the election, the art project which will go back to Toronto for a fundraising event, but most of all – the interaction with the children.  Our hearts melt when they come around with huge smiles on their faces for us – one of the precious rewards and memories for us after this week.  There are some who don’t smile very often, as they have suffered much in their young lives, but there is hope for their future now in the opportunities they will have here and as their lives change with God’s transforming love.  We are inspired by the Director and all the teachers and support staff that love these children and nurture them, as they share their time, their love, compassion and faith with each child.  Claudia tells us that on the days that she feels overwhelmed she is inspired by the kids and that they give her energy.  We understand exactly what she means.  Her faith is deep and she prays each day for God to use her to better the children’s lives. 

Breakfast was at 8 which could potentially mean a possible sleep in day, but we were all up early as we packed and swept and cleaned (which was a little difficult with no water again this morning).  

We had pancakes for breakfast with cantaloupe as did the children.  Here are a few of the littlest girls lining up for their pancakes.








 
 Still found some time to spend with the kids before we left for the airport and to say our goodbyes and a chance to debrief and share with Matt, the Executive Director. He is always wanting to hear about our week and our thoughts and suggestions.  It was a good sharing time. 

We had time for our annual team photo.

With luggage tied down on the roof of the van and us all piled inside we cautiously made our way to the airport and Raul was with us until we headed to security.  We said goodbye to Bruce as he headed off on a little earlier flight back to Colorado.  Erika was with Raul as part the farewell team, and we were envious of her being able to stay behind and continue in the ministry of this place.  We found some clothing items and some shoes in the bodega for the baby and the 4 year old that we met at the home visit yesterday and she will see that they get to the family.  The baby who must have been near one cannot leave their little shack with its dirt floor, for the property around them was unsafe for a child who did not have shoes. 

This is being written from the plane.  Our departure was late as we had to wait for the winds to be favourable, due to the full load, SHORT runway and HIGH surrounding terrain – one of the wildest airports in the world!  After about 30 minutes the winds turned in our favour and off we went and are now over the Florida panhandle.

Now on our second leg after having left Tom and Jane and Lynne in Atlanta for their connecting flights.  Had time for a nice meal in the airport and will get home at midnight.   

We will gather more pictures to add to this blog.  There are such beautiful and priceless photos that you will love.  Stay tuned.

And thanks to all who have supported us and upheld us in prayer and in your many ways of support.  We do not do this alone.

Posted by Janice