At the beginning of the week, I was asked if we could possibly do some sightseeing one day. I told them that I would consider it and see how the week went. I explained that we had to finish our houses and that depended upon the weather, how hard they worked, and others variables. The weather has been absolutely beautiful without any rain this week. The group has all pitched in and worked long days to accomplish our goal. I thought we were doing 12 houses but Derrick had 15 (greater challenge) lined up for us. We still have cement to do in three houses and the walls to put up when they are completed but for the most part we are down to finalizing our work effort. Having had such a great week, we decided to let them have three options today. Plan A was to go hike 1 ½ hrs (or horse ride) up to the active volcano and see the lava flows, Plan B was to go to the Mayan ruins and the lake, or Plan C was to stay home and either work or rest. About 19 of our group chose to go to the volcano, leaving at 5:00 a.m. and will return about 2 or 3 p.m. About 8 of them (the smarter ones) chose to go to the ruins and lake. The rest of the group (the smartest ones) chose to stay at the mission and rest. Actually, they have worked very hard sorting out the clothes and things brought back last night and several of them are preparing for a one day VBS on Saturday afternoon (if everything works out). We ask you to remember Cristy Leytham as she had to go last night to see her doctor as her blood pressure went sky-high again. We hope to know about her well-being this afternoon.
Tonight is going to be a fun night of fellowship. We are going to have a celebration service which includes a talent contest, special music, testifying, and just no telling what else. I do know that some of these people have been working very hard preparing to dazzle us with their skills and talents. Maybe that is why I can’t seem to find my bubba teeth anywhere? I will blog again as to the results of our evening.
Update Friday night:
The vans have returned and the stories are great. The volcano was an unbelievable adventure but definitely not for the faint of heart. I was so amazed that folks like the Peacocks, Peters, and other senior adults rode the horses up the volcano! They said it was a sight to behold. Some said they would not do it again but would not miss it for the world? Strange! (It was difficult for some to get up the mountain.) The melted shoe soles were interesting.
The other van returned with great stories of the ruins and the Atitlan Lake. They did some shopping and enjoyed the day with a meal at a local restaurant.
The third group stayed at the mission house and did accomplish all they had planned to do including getting their special music ready for the evening service. As hard as they tried they were runners up in the talent contest. The evening service was a terrific time of fellowship and fun. Three of the boys from MRBC played their Adam’s apples (hilarious) and the group with the Bubba teeth absolutely was a sight to behold. Marie Lynn sang two great songs, Pastor Max and his family sang, Kerry and I sang, Adam Gully sang, Adam Gully and Emily Hughes and John Bass sang, and the list goes on. Adam Gully from MRBC won the contest with a rendition of Amazing Grace! Great job! All of those who participated in the contest won a free meal Sunday afternoon for lunch (they were getting one anyhow, but don’t tell them).
Paul and Cristy returned today from seeing her doctor. Apparently the blood pressure gauge was faulty and gave a misreading. She seems to be better today but definitely appreciated all the prayers.
Tomorrow is finish up day with all houses to be completed and dedicated. We have made little sets of gifts for each family. We are looking forward to the dedications. Tomorrow afternoon will be our one day VBS at Paul and Cristy’s church. Terry Stephan will preach and Cristy will interpret for him. This should be another very busy day.
