Day 1 from Paige

To start off the day we ate breakfast at the hotel together. Then, before we left to go to church, we groups together and prayed over our day/ talked about how our mission work was not only in the things we do for the kids, church, and the community, but also in the way we treat the strangers around us. Then, we drove on a bus to the church in Guararri. We enjoyed the worship songs, greeted the church members, and listened to the sermon. Some of us went with the kids during the sermon and introduced ourselves, drew pictures, and ate snacks. After church, the whole group ate lunch, and prepared our program for the kids who would arrive later. When they came, we read and acted out a bible story, then sang some fun songs. Next, we played games like sharks and minnows, and Gaga ball. We also drew more pictures with the kids, and ended up making several sweet friends despite the language barrier. We used our best, but broken Spanish which they still loved. We learned their names, and even had a discussion about the songs they like. For most of the time, the kids didn't want to leave our side, held our hands, hugged us, and wanted piggy back rides. Finally, when it was time to leave, we said "hasta luego" and they hugged us and asked if we would be back tomorrow. They were so happy when we said yes, and waved at our bus as we pulled away. We drove to the market in Sarchi, witnessing incredible scenery like mountains, sugar cane fields, and coffee plantations along the way. We went on a tour that taught us about a Sarchi workshop that makes ornate and colorful wagons and wheels. After that, we went shopping and then ate dinner. Finally, we ended our day with a group bible study at the hotel.

Paige VanRyswyk