Live, from Guatemala!

Amazingly enough, we have an internet lounge in the pension where we are staying! I'll make this quick, because other people are waiting to use the computer. We are having an amazing time. There are over 100 children at this orphanage in Xela. And they are all SO lovable. We have some pretty structured rotations in the morning, from crafts, to music, to recreation, to bingo, etc. After lunch in the afternoon, we have free time with the kids. Today, Rick and I were part of a group that took 12 of the older boys to McDonalds. They LOVED it. It was the first time for most of them, and they couldn't stop smiling the whole time. Even the older boys (age 12-15) are very needy of physical attention. They want hugs and touch. And it is so wonderful to be there with them. One of the boys at McD was crying today. We asked, through a translator, what was the matter. There were some kids that left the orphange today to go home, or elsewhere, not sure. And he was very sad. I'm sure he felt left behind, abandoned... again. It broke my heart as I wiped away his tear and huged him close. The playground that the men are building is coming together, and we hope to let the toddlers play on it on Thursday. Tomorrow, we are bringing in Happy Meals for all the kids at lunch. And Friday is the big carnival that we are throwing for them. That will be an awesome day. But for now, we are cherishing all the sweet moments. I know that God is with the orphans in this this world. And in the book of James, he writes that true religion is caring for the orphans and widows of the world. I have to say that being with these children is better than any worship service I have been a part of. I see God here, in each little face. In each tear, in each smile. It is truely beautiful.