Each day seems to increase with amazing things happening, and today was no different! We went back out to Hope Home this morning for our last day there. We got right to work on finishing the playground. We had a lot to do when we first got there, but God took our skills and talents and multiplied them. Thank you all for praying because I am thrilled to say the entire playground was finished when we left there, and Katy was able to finish the mural. The kids now have two towers complete with slides, swings, a bridge, a rock climbing wall, ladders, and picnic tables... in 5 days out of some pretty interesting lumber y'all! I honestly didn't think it was possible but was reassured that with God nothing is impossible.
When the playground was up, we allowed all of the kids try it out. It was the most amazing surreal experience. The children were laughing and screaming and just being kids. These children have had most of their normal childhood stripped from them and to watch them play this afternoon brought tears to my eyes and many of the team's eyes. While videoing the children playing, I saw Pastor Tim and Tony come into my camera frame. Turns out they were carrying Carl, a handicapped little boy with the most beautiful but painful history, on to the playground so he could slide and swing like everyone else. When he went down the slide, he was laughing and smiling louder and bigger than anyone I have ever seen. He was beyond happy, and I thought my heart literally might come out of chest. Tony and I were pushing him on the swing and the same thing was happening. He was being a kid, and I am positive it was an experience he has probably never had before. With teary eyes and a changed hearts, we all left Hope to go back to the hotel.
We took showers and headed to Ruimveldt Home, an orphanage for children diagnosed with HIV or AIDs. We weren't able to stay long but just in the time there, the same experience of so much love and generosity was present. The head caregiver, Sister Jenny, was so excited to see us, and I was thrilled to see her again. We had Quiznos for dinner and are now back at the hotel (maybe attempting to stream the NC State game!) GO PACK!
We are anxiously but sadly awaiting our last day on the ground tomorrow. We are planning to shop, go to the baby orphanage and to Joshua House for a last visit. Continue to pray for our time here as it is coming to a close and for everyone here and at home-- goodbyes are never easy for anyone. Thank you so much for praying for us through this journey!
Lauren
GO PACK!!
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