It is now Friday morning as I bring the updates on GRACE ’09 V to a close.  Thanks for taking the time to keep up with this team.

On Wednesday, most of the team members and four of the Fab Five went to the lake.  They had a good day.  I don’t know all of the details but I do know they rented a double decker boat and eventually ended up diving/jumping into the lake from the upper deck.  Matt DeYoung was the ring leader and I think that goes back to the “boat trip” to Kentucky from earlier this year. 

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Stan & I were joined by Samuel & Pastor Max, Mike & Katie Parker, and some other TN folks in building a house for an elderly gentleman.  That went well and I appreciate Mike Parker allowing GRACE Ministries to help in this situation. 

The afternoon was spent washing the blue truck and doing some other things in preparation for our departure the next day.  We then headed to Paulino’s for supper.  We were joined by Tico Vargas & John King. 

We had an evening devotional plus a share time although this team wasn’t much on sharing.  We dedicated Larry Josue.  He is the son of Herbert & Antionetta. 

Yesterday, we left at 3:15AM headed for the airport.  Elle rode with me in the Montero as she was sick.  We had to make a couple of stops for her which delayed us some but she made it.  The luggage truck had a flat tire and Solomon was having difficulty getting the lug nuts off.  We were blessed that the truck on the road in front of the airport so we took our vehicles over and off loaded the luggage into them.  Everyone got checked in and the Alabama folks, the Michigan folks, and Myrna all arrived home safely and on time. 

Of course, it was a real joy to see Samuel Acan enter the USA.  It took him awhile to get through customs and they drilled him pretty good but he made it!  He doesn’t understand why we have no mountains or volcanoes in Alabama! 

This was a very good team.  Great attitudes!  Great work ethic!  The Lord blessed us with awesome weather although we know Guatemala needs the rain.  My prayer is that these team members will consider joining us on a future trip and bringing a friend or two along. 

I close by saying a huge “thank you” to those who helped lead this trip – couldn’t have done it without them!  Obviously, our greatest thanks goes to God as He blessed us immeasurably!  My prayer is that He received the glory for all that was done this past week!  He, and He alone, is worthy! 

Next up – First Baptist Church of Wilmington, NC as they arrive this Sunday, 8/2 and leave the following Sunday, 8/9.  Pray for them!