Sunday

Lots happening again today. This morning started off with church at the school with all four orphanages in attendance. The kids sang some songs and Mike gave the message. I actually didn't make it as I was sick this morning, so I can't give too many details. I got some pics from Morgan though.

Gina and Rebekah...our kids had on new clothes today. How beautiful!

Sothurn and Somphoas

Hanging out after church with a donut

Mike giving some hugs

After lunch, we went to a state-run orphanage where a little over a hundred kids live. It is definitely a stark contrast to the Asia's Hope orphanages. Pictures aren't going to be able to capture the lack of hope that exists there. We sang some songs, Kelly gave a short message, and then we handed out small bags of soap and candy. They are appreciative of anything that we give them.

The orphanage is housed at a former Catholic monastery.

The ladies lead the kids in song.

Kelly shares a message of hope and the love of God.

The team hands out goodies to the kids.

Then, we went out to play with our kids for a little while. The kids from Prek Eng 4 were also there. Lots of games, bubbles, and hugs.

Kim plays volleyball with the boys. They told her she was strong:)

Sreyroth held her bag of goodies all night. Love the sticker on her forehead.

More 4-square. This time Morgan and Gina get in the game. The kids from Prek Eng 4 got to learn tonight.

Kimhou was in rare form tonight. When I was here this summer, she didn't want to have anything to do with westerners. She wouldn't even look at us.

Kelly has got to be worn out from lifting kids:) Sreylin just giggled the whole time.

Mike says goodbye to the children.

Later that evening, we went out to dinner at one of my favorite cafes. They have the best brownies that I have found in this country.

Pastor Mike and Kelly left for their next leg of the trip. They are off to Kenya to visit a group of pastors and another orphanage there. Please pray for their travels. Tomorrow, the rest of the team is going to do some shopping at a local market, go to the school, and then back out to the orphanage. Please pray for health. Some of us have been feeling a little under the weather. We have a lot still ahead of us!

We were talking today about how it's so hard to put this experience into words. I can tell you that your support of our children has literally saved their lives...but it's hard to convey the depth of those words. I think that the Vista team has gotten a first-hand look at what that truly means. Our kids now have food, shelter, affection, care, schooling, and especially the love of Jesus. They were taken out of a life of poverty, abuse, despair, and hopelessness and given a chance at truly living with hope. Words just don't do it justice.