Saturday, July 24

Feeling much more rested, we ventured to a village far outside of the city today. The idea was to take some of "our kids" from Asia's Hope and give them the chance to serve in ministry to these kids in the village. We bagged treats for each child that contained toothbrush, toothpaste, candy, flavored milk and soap. We prepared 120 of them and we were 80 short. So we guessed that we had over 200 children there. We are making arrangements to get bags to the other children who gave their names to the people at the village church. They all sat patiently on the floor of the church while we waited for everyone to get there and begin their time together. Some of the kids gave their testimonies. There was a craft and some relay races and everyone seemed to enjoy their time together. Our kids were really helpful with the English translation as we moved from event to event. After the very long ride back we went to the National Museum that holds findings from many centuries past. We had an English speaking guide -NOT! The girls didn't even know she was speaking English!! It was interesting. Contrasts are everywhere. Here is this beautiful Asian-looking complex, lush with greenery and outside the walls there is little beauty in the surroundings. We dodged some rain today a couple of times. We did supper later - more very good fried rice with bacon and shrimp and a large fried egg topping the dish. Please pray for church tomorrow with the kids. Also please pray that the swelling will go down in my feet. They are still very uncomfortable. Everyone is healthy and working well as a team.