Baseball, Bibles & Barnyard Animals. . . .Thursday's Activities are priceless!

Only in Nicaragua can you lose your baseball under the piglet when the second baseman throws the ball to home plate, but Bill managed to have that happen today!  Granted, on a field that has a banked turn around third and the first base line is all uphill, you have to expect a few unusual events.  Still, the view of more than 50 teenagers and adults from 2 different countries & a half dozen states that don't speak the same language laughing and playing together is priceless (even if the pig wasn't so happy about the game!).

We're going to have to rename Bill (we're thinking Ole' McDonald), as the dental clinic continues to lead the team in barnyard animal sitings.  The hen was finally successful, and is nesting on 9 eggs as we speak (we've lost count of the baby chicks actually running around).  In addition, as the cows headed down from the mountain, one curious bovine decided to poke her head in the door to check things out. 

VBS had another outstanding day, and in addition to the increasing fame of "The Magician" (the kids chant for Richard all day long), we had simultanious "volleyball," bubbles, and balloon animals.  The support the community has shown in the kid's programs is awesome, and the younger members of our team continue to show wisdom, leadership, and patience well beyond their years in working with the many challenges they've faced.  Mary's dedication and preparation certainly have payed off,  and God has used her many talents here.

Kitty & Mark wrapped up the Pastor's retreat today, with great results.  Rolando heard awesome things from the local preachers and their families, not only about the talks and programs they shared, but with the books & gifts provided to them as support for their continued growth.  It is gratifying to know that while the local men were already working well together, they've been given some helpful hints on how to improve their relationships with each other, their families, and their communities.

Our clinic will close tomorrow at lunch, and we'll move on to a little R& R before transitioning back toward home.  We've already begun to say our goodbyes, though as one of the pastor's so aptly put it, if we don't see them again before, we'll certainly see them again in Heaven.  Please pray for continued wisdom, restored health, and safe travels.