Lots of rain, but no dampened spirits

Today was another great day at Kids Place. Once again, we started the day with a great devotion by Randy and Emily Elston. Randy also shared his testimony, which blessed all of us. Mary Ann Miltenberger commented on what a blessing the trip has been. She couldn’t be more right. And, a rain shower during our devotion cooled things off for a few minutes!
The kids were full of energy when we arrived this morning. The children in the families we visited seem to be particularly enjoying their time with us. They were excited to see us again today. It is so much fun to walk into a place and be smothered with affection.
We were all a little more prepared for our time with the kids. One highlight was when Waska, an interpreter, brought his guitar into a classroom. The kids were so excited. They danced and sang with enthusiasm. It was infectious. Being with these kids just makes you smile.
Again, the dads were called on to swing, jump, tote, and even dance with the kids during playground time. John Reding was such a good sport as child after child wanted him to “jump” them up into the air.
After lunch, we prepared to go visit the families again. Today, we repaired the roof of the woman (Luciene) who accepted Jesus as her Savior yesterday. She told us before we went to her house that her husband also wanted to pray and receive Jesus as his Savior. But, he works long hours every day, and we weren’t sure when we could visit with him. So, we prayed for an opportunity on the way to their home. In God’s usual way, He surprised us. Claudio was home when we arrived. He and the men worked together to repair his roof. It was a great time of fellowship. As we were leaving, he prayed with us and asked Jesus to be His Savior.
The Reding family also had the privilege of leading the two girls in the family they visited to Christ. It’s so neat to see God working in such awesome ways.
The home the Baileys and Rizenbergs visited enjoyed an extreme home makeover, courtesy of Sonya. From what we hear, it looks great!
Please pray as we visit new families tomorrow. These two days have been full of significant time with the families. We are looking forward to what God has in store with the other women. Please also pray for stamina. We are definitely tired at the end of each day! And, please be praying for the dinner on Friday night. All of the families we have met with will (hopefully!) come to Kids Place for an “American” dinner.
Laugh out loud moment: When the Dodds met with Luciene and Claudio’s family, Claudio’s mother also stopped by. She enjoyed visiting with us. But, she suggested to Brian that he needed to eat a little less and exercise a little more! You have to love someone who speaks their mind!