Falls, Drags, Hugs & Kisses

I'm having a few issues trying to charge my computer. I'm sorry for the slight delay of an update. Today, at least, there will be two posts!

Yesterday went well, despite the night before's emotional roller coaster. God provided us with a restful sleep.

At the Nicaraguan church a little girl had an accident and tumbled down a set of steps. I'll spare the details, but she was taken to the hospital and got four stitches on her chin. Luckily that was the extent of her injuries. She was a trooper, but please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

These boys (and our boys) are obsessed with these tops!

I love this photo! These two kids came in while Carla was talking. The little one fell behind, then actually fell. They continued to drag him until sweet Steven bent to pick him up. There were many giggles. The little boy was not hurt...

But, he was tired.

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Before lunch there was an impromtu male walk-off. I believe it was after a 'gringo picante' [see quote] comment. Jonathan Batchelor was voted the winner. There was dancing involved, hair flicking, worm-ing and sunglass throwing.

Contenders: Michael Hale, Pepper Pilliod & Jonathan Batchelor

The rest of the day went well. The children were very clingy in a very sweet way. It'll be hard to leave. Such strong relationships have been built in such a short amount of time.

You decide what Michael is doing... ;)

Youth night began with an intense, competitive game. Later, Genesis shared her testimony that focused on how much God has changed her life within this past year.

We have such a strong team and they are working so hard. Pray that we are able to give ourselves fully to this last day.

Quote of the Day:
[Sidenote: Michael Hale is apparently referred to, or refers to himself as 'gringo picante.']

"Why am I not gringo picante?"-Pepper Pilliod

Mike and Allison, we have successfully pulled Pepper out of his shell. You could say we've 'cracked' Pepper...

Picture of the Day:

Tough (but great) Day

What can I say that the pictures don't already show? (and there are plenty of pictures!)

Our schedule was the same today as the day before. There were more kids that showed up at the Nicaraguan church today and the joy on their faces when we arrived was humbling. The children at the church are very attached. We are glad to be of service at the church, but I think we'll leave a large chunk of our hearts behind.

(More details below pictures)

Pepper Pilliod as 'Goliath' in David & Goliath

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Juan Pablo gave his testimony for the youth night. It was powerful and he was very transparent about what the Lord has done in his life.

Group prayer

The team was very worn out by the end of the day, but their stamina to push through to the end was outstanding! There are not enough positive affirmatives to give to our team. Their hearts are wide open and raw and their love and playfulness is exactly what is needed for these children. These people need love!

It was an extremely tough day that had physically and emotionally drained most of the team. At our closing team meeting, before bed, many people shared their heart's troubles at seeing how little we have to offer. Many of the young children and teenagers have had very hard lives; lives that our team members couldn't even imagine. Many of them are so shockingly upfront that it is easy to feel inadequate and at a loss as to how to relate in any way possible. I think, for many in the team, they are realizing just how much God's love for them is unwarranted. How amazing is it to be broken by God to then be used as disciples for Him!

Pray for the team's ability to let God break them. Pray that their stamina continues through the rest of this tough week.

Also, the water situation (showers, sinks, toilets) is off and on. By the end of the day we are sandy, stinky and just plain gross. We need some running (or, dripping) water.

We are incredibly grateful for your prayers! We know that you are a HUGE part of what the Lord is doing. Big hugs and lots of love from all of us to you! 

Quote of the Day: "I saw his under-panties!"-Trinity Louderback

Picture of the Day:

Sand, sand everywhere!

The team slept much better last night! Your prayers for mosquito intervention were upheld. Please continue them.

This is the first time a Peru team has had two Bible Fun Club sessions in a day. In the morning the team tuc-tuc-ed to the Nicaraguan church.

Tuc-Tucs

This church is located in a red zone neighborhood (don't worry, parents, we were safe). We had the privilege to interact with a group of approximately 75 children (10 & under). The coordinator, Mariana, was pleased to see our team. We were the first group to visit and serve their community. Our visit, program, and outward love was much appreciated.

Jonathan Batchelor as 'Dove' in Noah's Ark

Our afternoon Bible Fun Club was held at our host church. A total of 176 children (11 & under) attended. The time was filled with learning, fun and games, and priceless moments with the children of Peru. Many of these children have very little. For example, some of our students were painting the young girls' nails. The girls were so excited by the attention and the desire to be beautiful they would quickly bite or scrape the fresh coat of paint for the chance to be re-manicured.

In the evening we then gathered to hold a Youth Program for approximately 60 teenagers. The team was exceptional in opening themselves up. Bella Purcell gave a wonderful testimony and later the team broke off to have small groups.

Our days for the rest of the week will continue to be this packed. It was amazing to see the love shown by our team  and our energy was through the roof! Please pray that we continue to give our all and push ourselves to the limit even in the chaos of our packed days.

Quote of the Day: "I want to be kidnapped!'-Trinity Louderback (Tina ask Trinity. Know she is secured.)

Picture of the Day: