Thanks to your prayers, we made it!
After 38 1/2 hours we made it safely to Estancia. It took longer than usual this time first because both vehicles were pulling trailers, and second because it took us nearly 4 hours at the border with paperwork. Thanks to all your prayers we both got green lights and didn't have any trouble with the gifts getting across.
We arrived at almost 5 am and slept less than 4 hours before we began our day. From the unloading of the trailers, to the reloading for our locations, it was a busy morning. We went to Maravillas at 12 and there were over 120 kids waiting for us. The kids sang with all their hearts for Sarai as she led them, then we got into the story with our teenage helpers. After the making of cards and decorating gift bags, it was time for them to receive their bags. They were all thrilled of course.
From there it was off to Sauceda on the side of the mountain. They also were all waiting on us. We had to do a little improvising due to supplies available at the time, but Obed, the minister there, was great about rolling with the punches. We gave out about 70 bags there.
Our last stop of the day was in Pastoria. What an overwhelming site, but how gracious of Adriana's family to open their home once again. There were too many for the porch, so everyone just piled in the back yard. We gave out 263 gifts to kids, and with all the moms etc there, I'm sure we had well over 300 people. It was very busy, but amazingly orderly. It is hard to believe that in our first day we gave out nearly half of the bags brought.
Once all the kids left, Adriana's mother had fixed us a nice dinner of meat and rice. As usual they were most hospitable, and we just enjoyed a relaxing time of chatting and resting. We topped off the night by singing songs with the guitars. I thought I might have to play all night they way Adriana kept wanting "one more". It was just wonderful to share that time with my sister in Christ and her family.
Tomorrow we are off to Las Colonias in the morning, and then to Rascon tomorrow night.
Thanks for praying us through this far, but don't stop now!
