Monday, Febuary 27

Today was our first workday; we were blessed with warmth, a cool breeze and a short rain shower that provided an amazing day for our work at the church in Valle Dorado. Our familiar friends, Paola, Dari, Carlito, John Darwin and many more, greeted us. It was so exciting to be back and see that a lot of progress had been made since last year! A roof had been put over the rooms to the side and concrete was poured inside the rooms. It is getting easier to envision what the finished building will look like. Even though the church is far from being finished, services and Sunday schools are still held in the unfinished area. Our day started with pulling weeds and underbrush that had taken over the grounds. Scott, Parker, Sam, Kevin, Steve and Matt later progressed to digging holes for the last row of footings. All but one of the footings are ready to be poured when the concrete arrives. Kathy, Pam, Kim, Phil and Jessica worked on leveling out the floor in one room, which involved a lot of picking and shoveling. We are thankful that our good friend Yoe found his place on our team once again. Just like ole times! Gladys provided us with a wonderful lunch and some went back for seconds. We enjoyed fried chicken, rice and the best-mashed potatoes ever (according to Kathy). During our lunch break Kathy did her devotional. We were reminded of the special gifts we have - good friends, gift of time, gift of family, gift of laughter and the greatest gift of all – Jesus Christ who gave His life for us all. John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

We then returned to work and John worked with Marcia, (Samuel’s sister), and Willie, our driver, bending rebar for most of the day. After a long day we were ready to spend some time with the children. Dillon brought out the digital Polaroid camera and was swarmed by the kids. They were all so excited that they could have their picture taken AND bring it home with them. After the Polaroid camera ran out of battery we started a game of kicking ball that was enjoyed by all. Goodbyes are always tough but it helped to know we have tomorrow. We closed our evening in prayerful devotion. We wake tomorrow looking forward to a great day of service once again in Valle Dorado. We are tired but certain that God will provide a restful night as he has provided everything for us – just the way it should be!