Sunday

 

We are so thankful for a smooth travel day on Saturday. We had a super quick layover in Atlanta but were relieved to find out that or next gate was just about as close as possible. That allowed us to have a quick bathroom break and grab some quick food. We had no complications and were grateful to finally arrive. We enjoyed dinner at the pica pollo in Jarabacoa with the Griffin family, and our very own Karen Green! Everyone was in bed around 9:30pm to make up for the lost sleep from our 2am start to traveling.

We were all eager this morning to get to the Ark orphanage where church was held. Our arrival at the Ark marked our first time this trip to get to spend time with our precious kiddos. For some of us it was a reunion – an easy continuance of deeply developed relationships. For others who were on their first trip it was a moment to be remembered. That first time that you get to wrap your arms around the child whose picture has been hanging on your refrigerator is unforgettable. Randy and Denise Landis got to meet their two little sponsored girls, Kimberley and Keidy, for the first time. The girls were initially shy but by the time we transitioned from the church service to our waterfall trip they were warming up and ready for fun. It didn’t take them long to start splashing Randy and Denise and using them to help them jump higher as the leaped into the water. They also enjoyed making ‘snow’ angels in the sand. I have no doubt that those girls carried a ton of sand back to their homes in their clothes! Cheyenne got to spend quality time at church and the waterfall with Daniela, the precious little girl that our senior high youth group sponsors. Everyone had a great time, although some of us enjoyed jumping on the swinging suspension bridges that led to the waterfall more than others (Denise!).

 

Tyler with his sponsored child Darwin

Randy and Denise with Daniela and their sponsored girls Kimberly and Keidy

 

Katie and Derrick Allen, another amazing missionary couple, were gracious enough to host us at their house tonight to watch the superbowl. They have a great set up on their roof outside with a big screen and Katie made us a feast of sliders, sausages, monkey bread, buffalo chicken pull apart bread and eclairs. Those not interested in the game shared many laughs playing board games and just being silly. Derrick and Katie sure gave us a spoiled evening before we get down to business to work.

Tomorrow morning we are off to the schools – Palo Blanco and ANIJA – to help with some building projects and meet some healthcare needs. Good night all and thanks for the prayers!