April 12

Greetings.
This morning we got up at a later time, so that we could be ready to go to the worksite at 8:30. We arrived at the school that Impact Ministries is building, and were given shovels, pick axes, and wheel barrows. We began to move gravel up to the cement of the building that was already built, and also to move a hill. We were to take part of a hill, move it across the lot, and pile it so that it could easily be made into a road. We had to drink a lot because it was really hot, and were directed to wear a sunscreen. However, Brian refused to wear sunscreen because he wanted to work on his tan. He is now quite burnt. We had lots of breaks in the shade because of the intense heat and the hard work we were doing. Chelsea had an unfortunate accident with the pick-axe. While chopping apart some of the hill, she hit her ankle and cut it.
After this we went to Les’ house for lunch. All of us were really hungry and ate all the delicious food that Carmella prepared for us. When we had finished lunch, we went back to the guest houses to get ready for church. We had to wear specific clothing for worship: skirts for the girls and dress shirts for the guys. After preparing for church, we went on an adventure to find ice cream. We walked down a few streets and confused numerous Guatemalan people with our strange attempts at charades and miss-pronounced words for “ice cream”. All those who were in our group got ice cream, and the cones were amazing. We had huge scoops, and some of the guys had it dipped in chocolate with nuts on top. A dozen of us had huge ice cream cones for only about $10.
We drove to the church along a small winding road. There was a part of road where it was like driving on the edge of a cliff – it was straight down. There was also a hole in the road, so it felt like we were driving off the edge. When we got to the church, it was amazing to see how everyone was there just for God. The service was held outside under a canopy, and the people all sat on lawn chairs they brought out. We worshiped for a while and learned some new songs and also songs that we sang at the school yesterday. Crystal and I (Kristi) shared what was on our hearts as part of the message. I shared a short testimony and a verse, and Crystal shared a verse and how excited she was to be there. There was also a sermon after this. It was amazing because it was told in a way that was meaningful for both children and adults. Both the sermon and our sharing were really touching for us. We also sang as a group for the people gathered there. We handed out candy after this and the children loved it. A couple of the little girls really liked Amanda and Chelsea and clung to them until we had to get on the bus again to go back.
We got back and prepared for supper at Les’ house. We drove over because it was pouring rain again so we couldn’t walk through the field. After we ate we had a bit of time to hang out. Most of us just took pictures of each other which was really fun. Then we had a sharing time which was really meaningful. It was awesome to go back over our day and hear the highlights and discuss how we were feeling about everything that had happened so far.
Most of us are doing fine. Brian is sunburned and Chelsea’s ankle is cut from a pick-axe. This evening we realized that Amanda has sunstroke and was not feeling good at all. However, she’s drinking a lot of liquids and is getting better fast. Although we’re all tired, we’re looking forwards to a good night’s rest so that we can be prepared for tomorrow. Thanks for keeping us in your prayers.
God bless.


Submitted by Kristi