A Very Chenzhou Christmas!

Merry Christmas, all!

I received pictures today of the kids in their clothing! I'm so excited to see how happy they are. :)

I just wanted to say thank you to all who helped out this year. It means so much to me and these kids! Because of you, they were able to have a Christmas as well!

Here are some pictures for you all to enjoy!

All of my donations which FILLED three very full suitcases

Sweet 20+ year old with her new clothes :)

MuShu!

Lily... whose forever family is naming her Ellie! :)

Sweet Lulu!

Someone raided the candy canes... ;)

The Older kids with their presents!

Look at those smiles in the back!

God Bless, and have a Merry Christmas! :)

Lesson learned.

“God’s plan isn’t always what you expected, but often more than you could ever hope.” - Pastor Steve Murrell

It’s funny how at the end of every year I look back and review everything that’s happened. Whether it be good or bad. Most of the time my year doesn’t go as planned. And I remember thinking in these situations… “why can’t everything just go according to plan? Let’s stick to the book.”

And then I realized… They are according to a plan. But not mine, His.

As I look back on these happenings though, I’m grateful for the unexpected. One, they keep life a little bit interesting. And two, the Lord teaches me lessons through these.

And even though they may not be fun at the time… It’s my favorite way to learn a lesson. I love it when the Lord allows me to see for myself the rules and lessons we must learn. It always means so much to me when He trusts me enough to give me an insight of what it means to be more like Him.

Like learning faithfulness. Trust. Unconditional love. Compassion. Forgiveness. Peace.

Those are only a few lessons 2011 has brought me.

And though the situations that caused some of them may not be what I planned or expected…. It’s more than I could have hoped they could be. They are a lesson learned.

To YOU be the Glory

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17

Chenzhou Christmas is on it's way! A big thanks to all of my friends and family, through them I received enough clothes to send over. It took a lot of time and packing, but it is finished. :) I sent 3 very full suitcases full of clothes and little activities for the kids. I found 3 students traveling home for the holidays who are taking them, and then they'll be shipped to the orphanage.

I had a few panic attacks when I didn't have enough curriers and A LOT of stuff to send... But the Lord pulled through like He always does and sent two more angels to carry the luggage :)

During the process I had a lot of people who were donating saying how amazing I am and can't believe I'm only in high school and doing this. Where it's flattering and I'd love to take credit for it all, it's not me. It's all the Lords work, and I'm honored that he's working through me. He has given me a heart for these children and I'm just happy to help in anyway. HE receives the glory. ALL of it. I am nothing without him. I'm worthless and incapable of doing anything without him. So for that, He receives all the credit.

So in that light, I'm thankful the Lord has provided for me to figure out how to do this. I've had a few learning experiences along the way, but it's only to prepare me for next year ;). I'm grateful that He has placed this passion in my heart to help this kids, and led me to do so, and carried me through it all. I'm do thankful for everything He has done for us, and everything He has made me to be. He receives the glory. He is the one who has made all things possible.

Anyways, I hope to get pictures in a few weeks whenever the orphanage receives the packages. I can't wait to see it all! The kids are going to love it. Again, thanks to everyone who has helped out. I really do appreciate it. It's going to be such a huge blessing for them, because I know they've needed warm winter clothes. Such a blessing. Thank you all... And have a Merry Christmas! :)

Help Give the Chenzhou Orphanage a Christmas!

Two weeks ago I was talking with my mom about China, and as the cool winter air began to set in, we began wondering about my little buddies in the Chenzhou orphanage and how they were doing. I wondered how we could bless them this Christmas. So I emailed the orphanage director to ask if there was any way we could help. The next morning I was happy to receive a reply with pictures of “Will” (my Chenzhou buddy)….this is the best way to wake up, by the wayJ. They also said they do need winter clothes for the children in sizes 0-12 years old.

So here is where the importance of this post comes into play… I need YOUR help. While I wish I had the money to buy warm winter clothes for every child in the orphanage, I don’t think that is possible without the help of some friends. So, this Christmas, would you help bring Christmas to the orphans of Chenzhou?

A few ways you can help:

1) Sponsor a child by purchasing their winter clothing and, if you wish, some small gifts (*see small gift suggestions below). Or send money and we will shop for your sponsored child.

2) Get the word out to all your friends and family.

3) PRAY. Pray for the kids. Pray that they get the warm clothing they need in what can be a terribly cold winter for those living in an orphanage. Pray for a courier….we are working on finding a family who will be traveling to China and can bring an extra suitcase or two full of these donations (if you know of anyone, please let us know).

Here’s how it will work:
If you’re willing to sponsor a child email me (dancingjesusfreak@gmail.com) and I will send you a photo of your sponsored child. If you want to shop for your sponsored child, I will send you sizes along with the photo. If you would just like to send money, I will email you my home address and you can send a check to me. When the children receive their gifts, I will ask that the orphanage take photos that I can share with you. I can’t promise that they will take pictures of all the children, but I will ask them to take as many as possible.

Suggested gifts:
-Any winter clothing – long sleeved shirts/sweaters, pants, socks, hats, gloves, coats, scarves, blankets…you get the idea. All items should be new or like-new…preferably with tags.
-Small gifts that can fit in a 9x12 envelope. Small gifts can include: Stickers, coloring books, hair bows, jewelry, small candies, toy cars, toothbrushes, hairbrushes/combs, sun glasses, etc.
-Please do NOT send: large toys that don’t fit in a 9x12 envelope (we just won’t have space), nail polish, bubbles, gum, or anything heavy, sticky, or spill able.
-You and/or your child(ren) can send a note and a family picture. We will have the notes translated so the child or caregivers can read them.

My hope is to send the gifts for Christmas or Chinese New Year. I will need all donations (clothing or money) by December 4^th.

These kids need our help! Can they count on you? I mean, how can you say no to these sweet faces? J

China On My Mind

Recently, I've had China on my mind.

It seems all I can think about is China, China, China.

Every time I flip through a magazine, there's China. Or simply through my house... so many Chinese decorations.

Recently, every time I close my eyes to sleep, I'm greeted with beautiful Chinese faces with almond eyes from the orphanage I've visited. The dreams of China just won't stop.

Even today I was in class doing a writing prompt, and my friend says to me, "Hey! Let's write about the "your" kids in China." (yes, she said "your").

I've been reading "Kisses from Katie" by Katie Davis, and whenever she mentions Uganda and her love for it and the children, I think about how much I love CHINA and the KIDS I've met there.

CHINA CHINA CHINA.

It's been popping so much so that now I'll look at the clock when I wake up in the morning and go, "hmm, I wonder what the orphanage is doing right now. Probably eating, getting ready for bed, or sleeping..." and when I go to bed, "Oh, the kids are probably starting their day now. The oldest, Will and June, in school, and the younger kids studying at the orphanage."

Recently, the memories from my last trip has been popping into my head. Like, seeing Will for the first time in a year, and him grabbing my hand and running me down the hall to play IMMEDIATELY after being reunited.

Or memories of hugging "Miss Crazy", a beautiful little girl, after she gave me her drawing... the giggle that she made from my tight squeeze, reminding me that this sort of love from strangers is so unreal.

Or picking up a crying infant, one who lays in her crib all day long in a hot stuffy room, and hearing her cry turn to soft breathing and she looks in your eyes with curiosity.

Memories like coloring with a girl who has severe cerebral palsy, and mostly forgotten, haunt me.

China is always there.

I wake up thinking about it, and I go to bed thinking about it.

I try to find a way to relate things to China or my experiences there or the kids who have come home or the kids who are still there.

Why? I ask God the same question.

But as I read Kisses from Katie, or look through pictures and tear up, I can't deny a longing to be back. A deep desire to be there RIGHT now. My heart aches thinking that I can't be there to squeeze them all day long, and color with them, or play games.

I MISS MY KIDS.

I've recently gotten a job and started to save every bit of money I possibly can so I can return to see the beautiful faces once again. I'm praying and hoping that I'll be able go back in the summer.

But in spite of that, there are some days when I just wish I could pack up and return. Right NOW.

But God has a plan. He knows what He's doing in my life. I can only hope and pray that apart of that plan is for me to return to the other half of my heart. Again, again, and again.

I don't really know what to make of all of this. Sometimes thinking of China puts me in a bad mood, longing to be there but being stuck here, half a world away. But most days it puts me in a good mood, thinking and remembering all the wonderful memories I've made with my Chenzhou kids and nannies.

Like I said, I don't know what to make of all of this. I don't know what the Lord is trying to tell me. I don't know when the answer to my prayers will come. I don't know when these pangs of missing China will end.

All I know is, I've had China on my mind.

The Older I Get...

I go to a small private Christian school. They teach what we call "classical" education... which in so many words is like saying we do everything with a Christian worldview tagged to the end of it. It's always been a very small school, which honestly, I don't understand. It's wonderful. The education and community.

Well, this year we have had the privilege of opening up our lower school, so now we are a K-12 school. And can I just say, I LOVE having this kids around?

These kids brighten my day. And to be more specific, the K-2nd graders. I love all of them to death. For some reason that has always been my favorite age of kids... I love seeing how their brains work, seeing the joy they find, and the simplicity of life. Spending time with them is like seeing the world through a whole new lens.

Obviously, we don't have any classes with these kids. So it saddened me the first few weeks of school when we didn't have much contact with them besides a hello in the hallway and a high five in the bathroom. But, my best friend and I decided to somehow get into their lives.

So... for the past few weeks we've been eating lunch with the kids a few days a week, and also volunteering in their classroom on days when we have breaks. After the first day, I knew I loved these kids. They made my day. I can't even describe how much these angels made me laugh.

I'm just going to say, I'm SO grateful God gave me a heart for children in general. So blessed to have that gift.

After our first day of reading, building with pattern blocks, and kickball, the teacher stopped us and said, "Thank you so much. You have no idea how happy this has made them. Ya'll just made their day."

And that's when it dawned on me. I remember when I was their age, how I used to think older kids in their teen years were so cool. That even a hello and a highfive brightened my day. I began to realize that I looked up to those big kids.

And then an "aha" moment came over me. Now, I'M that big kid. I'M the one that brightens their day. I'M the one they're looking up to.

(Speaking of "aha" moments, any Modern Family fans out there? Did you see the premiere this week? Favorite line... "Manny, this is your "haha" moment!" haha, I love that family).

What a cool thing to think about, but also in that same sense, scary. I realized that the things I do, those kids will imitate. Those things I say, the kids will take in. And I began to realize, I need to be someone I would want to look up to. I need to be someone I would want my sisters and friend to look up to.

That's a lot of responsibility. But what a cool opportunity to plant seeds of truth into these kids at such an early age. I don't know how the Lord will use Alicia and I in these kids lives, but I'm so excited to see. And I can't wait to see how He will use THEM in OUR lives.

This Girl.

This girl is my best friend.

This girl, is the only reason I made it through Sophomore year.

I am more than thankful for this girl. God has truly blessed me with bringing this girl into my life.

This time last year, was the first time I'd ever met this girl. She was new at my school, and everyone else seemed to know her, except me. For our first week of school, my school goes to a camp, and we all hang out and get to know everyone. Well, all that week, I barely talked to her. She was off hanging out with the Juniors and such, and I was off hanging out with other people.

But on the last night/day, something clicked. We both realized how much we understood each other, and how we thought the same.

It seems like just last week we were sitting up on our bunk bed laughing the night away, having so much fun together. And now, we're here, a year later, getting ready for camp, and I'm happy to call her my best friend. :)

This year has brought us a lot of ups and downs. It's been a roller coaster ride for the both of us. But I've always said, the ones with lots of ups and downs, twists and turns, unexpected drops, are always the best. They're the type of roller coasters you want to ride. And through all of this, we've both learned so much. But I'll tell ya, I have nooo idea what my life would be like without her.

She was always there when I needed someone to talk to. When I was super excited about something, she was right there. When I needed someone to vent to, she was always there. When I needed someone to laugh with, she was always right beside me. When I was sad and needed someone to comfort me, she was RIGHT there. This girl. She is the best.

We began to realize over the year, that we think EXACTLY the same. Believe it or not. And the same things (like scenarios) would seem to happen to the both of us at the sa

me time.

The thing I love most about her, is that she's a God fearing woman of Christ, and she always pushes me to be a better person. When I'm upset or venting, she always tells it to me s

traight--what I need to hear. She always reminds me that God has a plan for everything, and it's not the end of the world. She loves the simple things in life, and loves the life she lives. And really, that's what counts. :)

This girl. This girl is the best. I am so blessed to call her my best friend.

We've had some crazy times together. Football games, mall time, car rides, scr

eaming at the top of our lungs, middle-of-the-night snack runs in our pajamas, dancing around at Mapco, almost being hit by a train (NO JOKE), so many inside jokes, laughing till no end in class, and so so so many more.

I love her. That's all I have to say. She's my best friend, and she really is the best.

God has done so much for our relationship in just one year, and I can't wait to see what He has planned for us in the years to come. For now, I'm focusing on Junior year. And so far, we've gotten off to a great start :))

I love you Alicia, dear. You're the best. I love you to no end, and I always will. Never forget it. :)

Actions Speak Louder than Words

I've been reading a book for summer reading called The Deadliest Monster by J.F. Baldwin. Though this is not an easy read, and I find myself wanting to pull my hair out because it takes me quite some time to comprehend (far more than I'd like to spend), it is jam packed with lots of great teachings. I would recommend it to anyone who plans on being a preacher, missionary, or wants to deepen your understanding of Christianity and the other religions that surround us in our everyday lives.

Baldwin talks about how "Christians must understand their worldview, and they must be prepared to defend their faith--but such knowledge means nothing until it is put into practice" (135). And he tells a great story to go along with this... and it brought me to tears. I really want to share it with you guys.

Now, I know I post inserts from books in here all the time... and I feel bad because I feel like I'm giving everyone so much reading, but it's great stories. Ones that really stick out to me and make me think, "WOW. God is so good."

So, I'm going to share this with you. You don't have to read it, but I recommend it, it's a fantastic story:

"In 1967, Doug Nichols decided to travel to India as a missionary--an odd choice, considering that he did not speak the language. He expected to overcome this hurdle with the written word, using good translations of Christian tracts and the gospel of John. Unfortunately, things went downhill for Doug, and he soon found himself in a sanitarium with tuberculosis. What could be more discouraging? He had come to minister to the people of India, and instead he found himself unwell in an unsanitary place, unable to talk to the doctors, nurses and patients around him. Still worse--because he could not communicate with these people, he could not impress upon them their need for a tract or the gospel of John. NO one was willing to read his only means of sharing the gospel with them.

Doug describes what happened next:

'The first few nights, I would wake up around 2:00 a.m. coughing. One morning as I was going through my coughing spell, I noticed one of the older (and certainly sicker) patients across the aisle trying to get out of bed. He would sit up on the edge of the bed and try to stand, but because of weakness would fall back into bed. I really didn't understand what was happening or what he was trying to do. He finally fell back into bed exhausted. I then heard him begin to cry softly.

The next morning I realized what the man was trying to do. He was simply trying to get up and walk to the bathroom! Because of his sickness and extreme weakness he was not able to do this, and being so ill he simply went to the toilet in his bed.

The next morning the stench in our ward was awful. Most of the other patients yelled insults at the man because of the smell. The nurses were extremely agitated and angry because they had to clean up the mess, and move him roughly from one side to side to take care of the problem. One of the nurses in her anger even slapped him. The man, terribly embarrassed, just curled up into a ball and wept.'

The same scenario replayed the next night: Doug was awakened by a coughing spell around two in the morning, and he noticed the same man trying to weakly stand. Without stopping to think about what he was doing, Doug got up, picked up the smaller man, and carried him to the bathroom. After the man finished, Doug returned him to his bed, went back to his own bed, and went to sleep. But he did not sleep long.

At four in the morning, another patient woke Doug and used hand motions to indicate that he wanted one of Doug's tracts. As the morning went on, more patients, nurses, and doctors indicated they, too, would like one of Doug's tracts or gospel books--until every person in the hospital had one. Within a few days, several of these same people trusted Christ as their Savior!

Obviously, it wasn't true to say that Doug had no way of communicating with these people. He could use the very best means of communication: his actions."

(The Deadliest Monster by J.F. Baldwin, pages 133-134)

I read this today, and I cried. It reminded me so much of how my team and I were in China. Multiple time we would say we wish we could speak the language so we could talk with the nannies, learn more about them, and witness to them. We were stuck with the simple hand motions.

But reading this... was encouraging.

Sometimes, it's easier to show someone what you believe, than to tell them about it.

We believe in Love. An everlasting, never changing, God of Love.

We were there to Love on the kids and nannies. That's exactly what we did. Though we could not speak, I know our actions showed through that we were different, because they've told us that. I can only hope that as more teams go back, that God will show more opportunities for the nannies to know what we're all about, how Christ has changed our lives, and hopefully He can change theirs.

That's my prayer.

Just remember, actions speak louder than words. You can say you believe in one thing, but until you live it out, no one will believe that you are different.

Sometimes, it's easiest to show someone what you believe.

In Case You Ever Have Any Doubt...

You know how sometimes you have those really bad days?

And sometimes in those days you think to yourself, "Is what I'm believing really true? There are hundreds of others of beliefs out there, how can THIS one be the ONE and TRUE one?"

We all have this feeling at least once in our lives.

But then you think to yourself, "It has to be. I mean, who could ever make up all these stories about how amazing our God is. And really, how could it NOT be true, if I have this relationship with Jesus?"

But, in case you ever have any doubt.... I have story for you.

I picked up this book at a consignment sale tonight called Revolution in World Missions by K.P. Yohannan. I've only made it through the first chapter, and I'm completely amazed. I just want to share a quick story from the book (these are missions in the Asian countries):

"Native missionary Jesu Das was horrified when he first visited one village and found no believers there. The people were all worshiping hundreds of different gods, and four pagan priests controlled them through their witchcraft.

Stores were told of how these priests could kill people's cattle with witchcraft and destroy their crops. People were suddenly taken ill and died without explanation. The destruction and bondage the villagers were living in are hard to imagine. Scars, decay and death marked their faces, because they were totally controlled by the powers of darkness.

When Jesu Das told them about Christ, it was the first time they ever heard of a God who did not require sacrifices and offering to appease His anger. As Jesu Das continued to preach in the marketplace, many people came to know the Lord.

But the priests were outraged. They warned Jesu Das that if he did not leave the village, they would call on their gods to kill him, his wife and their children. Jesu Das did not leave. He continued to preach, and villagers continued to be saved.

Finally, after a few weeks, the witch doctors came to Jesu Das and asked him the secret of his power.

"This is the first time our power did not work," they told him. "After doing the pujas, we asked the spirits to go and kill your family. But the spirits came back and told us they could not approach you or your family because you were always surrounded by fire. Then we called more powerful spirits to come after you--but they too returned, saying not only were you surrounded by fire, but angels were also around you all the time."

Jesu Das told them about Christ. The Holy Spirit convicted each of them of their sin of following demons and of the judgment to come. With tears, they repented, renounced their gods and idols, and received Jesus Christ as Lord. As a result, hundreds of other villagers were set free from sin and bondage."

--Revolution in World Missions by K.P. Yohannan (pg. 21-22).

I'm sorry, but is that just not amazing? I sat reading this with my mouth wide open. There is a God, and He is REAL. He is out there protecting us and guiding us through our lives, the lives we are supposed to live for HIM.

The Movement

I've only been home for a little under two weeks.

But yet I've hardly been home since I've been "home".

At least not for a full week.

Too much traveling for me. But I think after this week, I'm done for awhile.

I'm sick of traveling.

And I think the only thing that would make me super excited about hopping in a car/bus/airplane right now, would be if I was on my way to China. No Joke.

Friends we traveled with when we adopted Miyah are in China right now on a mission trip with VO. I find myself really jealous of them. They left only a few days after I returned home. It looks like their trip has been amazing so far. Check out their blog! And please keep them in your prayers, as I know from being there, tey need protection physically and emotionally, while they are there and after they have come home.

I posted earlier this week about being ruined. Our group leader, Shannon, had a great post about how she is ruined, and feels impossible to live with.

I know what she means.

I am ruined.

It may sound cliche after she's written this long post about it... but it's true.

I don't feel the same. I don't say the same things. I don't think the same.

I'm just not... the same.

I've found myself thinking so many times through everyday situations about the orphanage and the trip. Somehow, I can relate everything back or to how the kids live.

Suddenly after being there, life doesn't seem so bad.

And I don't know what it is about this year, but it really set in. I don't know why it hit me harder this year than it did last. Maybe because I'm older? I don't know.

I don't dread making my bed everyday. When my sisters complain about picking up their room, I think of the kids who don't have a room to share with their siblings.

Those who don't even have siblings.

I don't roll my eyes EVERY time my momma asks me to unload the dishwasher (I said not EVERY time, mom), because I actually have dishes to eat from.

I don't mind doing laundry, because I'm blessed to have more than two pairs of cloths to wear.

As my sisters complain about seeing Mr. Popper's Penguins when she wants to see Cars 2 instead, I think of how the kids see very few movies, let alone are fortunate enough to go to the theater and eat popcorn with their friends.

OR at dinner when she complains about not being able to eat raw carrots without Ranch dressing. And many of those kids (if any!) probably don't even know what carrots taste like, besides them being mixed in to their mush.

Yesterday my family and I drove to Wisconson. Along the way we encountered some strange architecture on the side of the road. And I think, "Why do people waste money on that? It's not beautiful. It has no purpose--specially in the middle of nowhere. They could've used that money to send someone on a mission trip, bring a child home, or pay for a surgery."

Yeh, that's just how my brain works now.

It's not that I'm thinking bad of my sisters or those people. I do it too. I forget and have my selfish days, too. It just sickens me that we're so spoiled. We have it way better than we could imagine. We don't appreciate the little things in life. And people have so much money, that they don't know what to do with it. Why not put that money to better use, and change one person's life?

RUINED.

But I can't complain. I feel like I have something to live for now. I KNOW there are orphans out there that need help. And I was put on this earth to help them.

I think they're up to 150 million orphans in the world now. Who's going to help them?

Me.

I am. I will help them.

Since I've been home I've had this stirring in my heart that I need to do MORE. There had to be something I can do here to help. My summer mission didn't have to stop in the Chenzhou orphanage. I can still help.

I was getting so restless doing nothing. Just sitting around.

There HAD to be SOMETHING out there I could help with.

And I found it.

I found a great organization called The Movement. Many of you have probably heard of Show Hope, an organization that gives away grants to adoptive families. Show Hope was started by Steven Curtis Chapman, the main reason we started thinking about adopting (after hearing their story at a concert). The Movement is for teens, and simply put: it's teens caring for orphans.

Right up my alley.

I contacted them, and I'll be volunteering with them over the summer. Right now they're working with a Child Departement of Services near us. I've only been able to be once since I've been home... but it was so much fun. I plan to be back every week. You have NO idea how excited I am.

I hope to get my school started with what they call a club. How great would that be?

That's actually the reason why I found this. I wanted to get my school started in service projects, and my mom suggested them. And I'm so glad she did.

There were other places I looked into. Like helping stop child trafficking, or ending hunger. And those organizations are GREAT, and much needed, and I'm open for my school to be involved in them. But for some reason, they just didn't grab me.

But this did.

Orphans.

I don't know what it is about that ONE word, but it grabs me and pulls me in. It gets me everytime. Breaks my heart, and I can't help but care.

I'm glad the Lord has made this so apparent to me, and I thank Him for that on a regular basis. I finally found what I care about, and it's clear to me.

I'm so excited.

If you live in the TN area and you want to get in involved in The Movement and help out, check out the link. I reccomend it. They're fairly new, and still trying to figure everything out, but I think they're doing great. Check it out, and see how you can help!

R U I N E D

This is a post, RUINED, from our group leader, Shannon, that I just had to share. Tears spilled from my eyes as I found myself laughing and knodding at the truths she writes. Nothing can be more true, but nothing can be more rewarding than what we have done. But there is still more to be done. There are still children waiting.

I traveled with a team of 13. And together we are all feel ruined.

I hope that YOU will search your heart and will be in prayer over if the Lord wants to ruin YOU too. For Him. For His children.

You are not too old.

You are not too poor.

You are not too busy.

Well maybe you are, and if that is the case, then you have a problem.

We can all do SOMETHING. We can be their voice. We CAN change their world.

HOME

HOME.

It’s a beautiful word.

You know the saying, “Home is where the heart is”?

Well, I find myself struggling with that.

My heart is in China, and yet, I am home. I’ve been home for a little over a day now. Haven’t I? Or was I home for those two weeks that I was in China? Hmm… it’s puzzling.

But for now, I have been home in TN for a full day. And it does feel good, even though I do miss China dearly.

It’s the little things that makes life worth with, and so much easier. For instance…

Not feeling like you’re going to die everytime you hop in the car. Or taking a shower in your bathroom. Or brushing your teeth from the tap. Or texting your best friend whenever you want. Or being able to talk to your parents. Watching movies in a comfortable bed. Seeing trees! Going to church. Understanding what everyone is saying in a large crowd. Not feeling like the odd one out. Or being able to hear your sisters giggle and laugh until they can’t breathe anymore.

Yes, after 36 hours of traveling, I’m grateful to be in Tennessee. I’m grateful to be home. I’m grateful to be with my family.

I got home around 10 am yesterday, and wasn’t tired. But I took a shower and sat down to catch up on my tv shows, and soon discovered that I was. I slept all afternoon until about 8pm. I got up, and was sad. I had a head ache, and was feeling a bit miserable. But also feeling almost depressed. Tears filled my eyes as I realized my trip was really over. I wasn’t in China. I wouldn’t wake up to horn honking, and bitty baby faces. I thought to myself, “What would I be doing? This summer will be so boring.” I mean, it’ll be busy… but nothing seemed important at that moment. How could anything be more important than those precious children waiting in an orphanage across the world? I felt useless, because I was not there. Suddenly the rest of my summer seemed pointless. It as weird.

After my little emotional episode, I was able to skype with our foreign exchange student (who is from Shanghai)! She is very sweet, and I am excited to have her living with us. And then I watched a movie with my momma and fell fast asleep. For about 7 hours. My mission for today was to stay away all day long. So far, I’ve been successful. But I’m so tired right now. I could die. BLECK.

Let the record show, that I hate jet lag. It’s the only down side to going to China. :/

Oh well, hopefully I’ll beat it soon.

But yes, my team and I have all made it back safely to our homes. We are all sad to have left China, and left one another. I miss my team. No matter how different we may be… we all had a special bond. We all were at the same orphanage, had the same experience, we are all Team Chenzhou 2011. They were all great people, and I’m sad to leave them. But we are home, we are with family and friends. My team will forever have a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait until our paths cross again.

Okay, I need to stop now. I’ve been droning on and on now, and I’m really sorry. I’m tired, and don’t know when to stop. Haha.

But just so you know, I’ve made it home, safe and sound. :)

Just Chillin in Beijing

(Here is my blog from our days in Beijing)

Well, it Rains in Asia.

I hope some of you got the song reference. Charlie…. I know you did :)

As we landed in Beijing the first night, we were greeted with drips of rain falling from the sky.

It’s funny, because we soon realized that Beijing did not really seem like China anymore. I mean, it was of course, its just so westernized compared to the rural area of Chenzhou that we’d been in, that we felt like we were home.

As soon as we got off the plane, I heard people who could speak English. At the baggage claim, no one pushed and shoved to get to their luggage. Elyssa and I turned around when we got our bags, and Starbucks greeted us on the other side. The bathrooms were CLEAN. They didn’t smell bad. They were western toilets, not the squatty potties, AND they even had toilet paper! It was a nice change of pace.

After we had checked into our hotel that night, we quickly left for the mall to find a pizza hut. YES, pizza. The only thing was, it started raining pretty hard. What’d I tell you? It rains in Asia.

The sidewalks in China are funny… they’re not the type of pavement that we have here… they’re slippery when they get wet. And we all had flip flops on…

Plus, half of our group forgot umbrellas at home, so we all were sharing them. Shannon, Elyssa, and I all squeezed under my tiny little thing. It was very windy, and halfway through our walk, it completely flipped inside out, just like in the movies, we’re all screaming, and slipping around, grabbing each other for support…even though we know the person next to us will slip as well. Haha! I’m sure we were quite the sight.

But hey, it was worth it for pizza hut. The warm taste of pizza. Mmmm, it was good. :)

The next day we met in the lobby and drove to Shepard’s Field. It’s about an hour away. It took us a little bit longer though, because our bus driver was confused as to where we were actually going. HA. We finally got there though, and we were immediately amazed by how great the facility was. It was like a little city…

We brought our donations into the main building, and unloaded them all. I was actually surprised because we had so much stuff to give them. It filled the long table they had laid out. The two people who greeted us told our team that with all of the donations we gave, we basically gave a child a surgery… all because they saved that much money on buying every day supplies. I thought that was amazing.

We came at an hour where the kids were all sleeping, so we had time to kill before they woke up. We were brought into the gift shop to look around and see what they had. They had some really cool things that I really enjoyed. All of the profits made from merchandise went towards the kids at this foster home, so I was really excited about that.

We were happy to see some other Americans there… they were there to help out for a few weeks. What’s cool to me is that they actually were able to stay at the Foster Home in a “hotel” above one of the houses, and hung out with one another while the kids slept. They worked hard trying to get sponsors for the kids, as well as advocating for their adoptions.

We ate lunch, then sat down with a few of the people who work there to find out all about what they do there, and what Shepard’s Field is all about. Basically what they do at Shepard’s Field is this: take kids from orphanages from all over China who would not receive the care they need. All of the kids at this Foster Home have some sort of disability, and receive the proper care they need. Many orphanages ask them to take the kids, so they will get attention/receive surgeries they cannot fund for. It really is an amazing organization.

We took a look through all the buildings they have. They have a lunchroom, school area, crafts area, a garden, huge playground, 4 houses, and they’re in the process of building a therapy building. They teach the of all ages English… partly to make their transition easier if they’re adopted, and if not adopted, it’s a life skill that could get them far. They also work hard to train the kids who will not be adopted in some skill that they enjoy so they may be able to make a life for themselves some way or another. They want these kids to have a life… not just locked up in the foster home for their whole life.

We then were able to split up into four groups to each go to a house to visit with the kids. The ratio of nanny to kids in this foster home is 1:2, they said. And it was apparent to us this was probably true. Most of the kids were in school when we visited, but there was plenty of help. In the house we were in, 3 kids, 4 nannies, and 4 of us. It’s a very rare thing to say… but there weren’t enough kids to go around! Ha. At points I felt almost useless… all the kids had their own little partner (or two… or three).

I think Shepard’s Field is one of those places you almost have to go for a few days to actually be able to help. The kids are all disabled, so it was hard to know what you could and couldn’t do with them—we needed to know their story and we needed people to show us how to care properly for them, but we just didn’t have enough time. So for that reason, I felt useless too.

So, at that point I was able to go look around the wall of tiles. They have a fundraiser where you can pay money to have a tile put up on their wall, and you can write whatever you want with your name. Well, when we were waiting for Miyah, we made a tile for her… and I was able to find it and take a picture of it for her:)

After that, our visit came to a close. Where I did feel useless at points, I was very glad we came. It was a great experience, to see the good these people are doing. They have an amazing foster home, and the only better place these kids could be would be with a forever family. They are in such great care here.

On our last day, Lori pointed something out. There is a huge contrast between the kids at Shepard’s Field, and the Chenzhou SWI. The babies were more active, and talking more at Shepard’s Field… where at Chenzhou, most kids did not babble, most could not stand on their own let alone walk.

Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying Chenzhou is a bad place. They do care for the kids, and they do the best they can, with what they’re given. It’s just that they don’t have as much help, and they don’t have as much time to care for each kid individually. What the people at Shepard’s Field are doing… is just amazing.

We left thankful we were able to visit.

That night we were all pretty tired and ready to go to bed. I don’t remember what we really did… except for the fact that I was exhausted.

The next day we woke up bright and early to climb the Great Wall. We drove out there for about 1 ½ hours. Elyssa and I soon discovered that we had come back to the same place we went last year. And it wasn’t any easier this year, haha. We were all so tired, feeling pretty sick by the time we made it to the top. But I must say, out of the 13 people in our group, 10 of us made it to the top:) Along the way I was documenting how steep the climb us, and there were Chinese people who kept up the same pace as us, and soon realized I was taking pictures. Everytime I turned around to take one, this one guy would throw up his peace signs and smile. Ohhh the Chinese…

Shannon told me I should get a punch card for frequent visits… my 4^th time up to the top, I think I should get in free, don’t you? Maybe next year… ;)

At the top we were greeted by a nice Chinese man who was selling tiles saying you made it to the top with the date and name engraved in it. I had one already from Mei Lin’s adoption trip, so I didn’t get one. But I think everyone else did. As he handed them their tile he said in a very enthusiastic voice, “You deserve it!” haha. He was very funny.

At the bottom, we got our group picture, and Elyssa and I got our annual picture in front of the wall which we got last year… only this time without Charlie :(

After the Great Wall, we went to the Jade Factory for lunch. No one really wanted anything from there… so it was kind of a waste of time. But, oh well.

We then rushed back to the hotel to change quickly and run back to the Silk Market. By the time we got there, we only had 1 ½ hours to shop before we had to leave. Elyssa and I were on a mission… and we dashed through the place getting the best deals we could on the items we wanted. Many people told us we were really hard bargainers. Once, I had just closed a deal with a girl and the chick in the store next to us looked at me and said, “ohh you are very smart, and drive a hard bargain.” Haha, why thank you :) I was sad to hear that most of the people in our group didn’t like the silk market… apparently it was too stressful to get the deal they wanted. I don’t know why, but I kind of got an adrenalin rush everytime it came down to “what’s the price”? haha.

After our shopping, we went to the Flying Acrobat Show. I was really impressed… I mean, the things these people could do was insane. Their flexibility, their strength, their balance. Amazing. I would recommend to anyone who is going to china to try and go to the acrobat show… it just seems so much cooler when you’re actually in China, I think.

That night we didn’t get back until late, and we ran to McDonalds for dinner. Of course. The next day we had to leave, so we still had to pack all of our stuff up, because we had to check out of the hotel pretty early the next day, before we went sightseeing. I was up late that night.

The next day we woke up and got ready, ate breakfast, checked out, and went to the Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden city. WE somehow managed to make it through both of them in 1 ½ hours. Which, I can’t complain. It was my 3^rd time being there… I wasn’t too thrilled to have to go again. I mean, it’s cool and all… but it’s one of those places that you go, get your picture, and you probably never really want to do it again. But that’s okay. It was still fun going with our group.

We came back, changed our clothes, and threw the souvenirs we’d bought at the Forbidden City into our suitcases and we were ready to go to the airport. But not without a cake and celebrating Elyssa’s 15^th birthday first! :) We got a cake and celebrated for a little bit. It was really nice.

On the way to the airport, we had devotions time. We sang for a little bit, and went around and shared what the most amazing part of our trip was. It was great to hear how everyone felt, and how each of us has grown emotionally and spiritually.

I’ll tell you, if this trip was nothing else, it was emotional.

And if this trip was nothing else, it was faith building.

I realized that this trip was all about faith and love. Faith to raise the funds, faith to trust in the Lord. Faith when we had a rough start to our trip—that everything would turn out fine. Love—for these kids. I found myself so many times as I held a baby, or laughed with a kid, how much I loved them. I genuinely loved each and every kid, and their spirits. And as I prayed over their lives, and as I sang and dance with them, I realized that the Savior of my life, my Father, loves me so much more than I love these kids. Not only does He love ME, but He loves each and every one of those kids… with a Love that is far to extraordinary for me to fully comprehend. He loves us. No matter if we know Him, or if we don’t. No matter if love Him back or not. No matter what we’ve done, no matter how undeserving we think we may be. HE LOVES US. Every single one of us… and that became so apparent to me on this trip.

Another thing that struck me was this: you can build relationships with people halfway across the world. I was amazed to see how happy the orphanage was to see Elyssa and I come back, and to see how that by the end of the week the nannies were comfortable with us, and how the director wanted to take us all shopping, and even pleasure shopping as well. It was incredible. We really need to keep that relationship up with them… I think if we do, amazing things will happen for that orphanage.

I also think I found that I would love to live in china. I would love to work in a foster home, or in an orphanage and help in anyway I can. The kids need help. Many won’t give them the proper care they need… and if no one steps up to the plate… they won’t get it. So why should I expect someone else to? If not me, then who? I think my eyes were opened on this trip to see that.

By the time we had all finished going around and prayed, the much dreaded ride hour or so ride to the airport was over. It was weird to grab all of our luggage and check in for our flights. The lady at the desk asked me, “Your bags go all the way to San Francisco?” I felt weird.

Should I really be leaving China?

Was our trip really over already?

I just didn’t seem right. It felt like we had only arrived there yesterday. To be honest, I wasn’t homesick yet. I was content with where I was. I felt like I was at home. Even in Chenzhou, where everything was so different.

Why was I leaving???

I dreaded going through security and onto our gate, where I knew I would be on a flight for so long. Where I knew I’d be traveling for an even longer time. It would take me 4 flights, and many layovers to get home. EW.

The flights were actually not that bad. The long flight wasn’t full, so Elyssa and I had an empty seat in between us, which we took turns laying down and sleeping. I slept for 6-7 hours on that flight, which was a miracle.

All of our flights were great though. Fairly bumpy, though. But nothing we can’t live without. I could’ve lived without the problems Elyssa had with her flights, and the problems Delta gave us trying to figure them out… but that’s okay. Everything worked out just fine, and I am home safely.

One of my connections landed in Cincinnati, and when Elyssa and I got off, we immediately looked for food. The one thing we had been saying we were looking forward to was Chick-fil-a, but realized we were going to miss the breakfast time by the time we reached home. BUT WE FOUND ONE THERE. It was the happiest moment of the day. I couldn’t believe it… it was sent from heaven, I’m sure of it. ;)

Anyways, Elyssa and I parted there… and it was just weird. I sat at my next gate waiting, by myself. It took me all of 30 minutes to realize that I really truly missed her. Already. Haha. She was such a great travel partner, eating buddy, and roommate. I’m so happy I was able to share this experience with her this year.

And I suppose that’s the close of my China trip, I guess. It’s sad… but true.

Until next year…. ;)

Last Day at Chenzhou SWI

Nine days now since we've been here! It seems like its been weeks since I left home, and yet these past few days at the Chenzhou orphanage have gone by so quickly--too quickly.

Sunday night we had a great devotion time. We spent a lot of time talking about the orphanage and such, too. All of those kids have blessed and touched each and every one of our lives. As we prayed, I don't think there was a dry eye in the room. I knew that saying goodbye the next day was going to be hard--a second time, a second year.

Am I crazy? I put myself through this last year, and I wanted to do it... AGAIN?

I mean, I started this whole journey this year saying "Call Me Crazy" (blog post). I guess I am. Its worth it to see these kids. The joy that they have, and the joy that they bring others is just amazing.

Elyssa was tired and fell asleep before devotions, and I let her sleep. When I got back to the room I slipped into bed. I couldn't sleep. I kept seeing the faces of the kids. Those who are fortunate enough to be adopted, but mostly those who were not. Those who have the possibility of being stuck at this orphanage for life.

This one girl in particular. She's 13. The cut off age in China for children to be adopted is 14 (on their 14th birthday they become ineligible for adoption). THIS IS HER LAST YEAR TO BE ADOPTED, or she'll be here forever. She's such a sweetheart. I've seen her help out with the babies, playing and caring for them, but she's also a kid at heart. She plays along with the others, and enjoyed the activities we laid before her. She has the most infectious smile and laugh. Her favorite color is yellow, and she says she wants to be adopted. She wants a home, and she NEEDS a home. The only thing "wrong" with her is that she has cerebral palsey (sp?) In her left hand. She has learned to work around it, though. I often times forget about it when I watch her play. There is no reason why this girl should not have a home by now. I can only pray that she will find a home that loves and cares for her.

As I laid in bed, I cried. I knew the next day at the orphanage was our last. Maybe my last forever. While I hope that I will be able to return, I don't know what the Lord has in store for me. Maybe it is to return to this SWI, but maybe another in a different province.

I don't know. I can't really explain what I was feeling. I was happy I got to do this again. Don't get me wrong, its such a blessing to be here. I just wish I was able to stay for so much longer. Like, a full week. Maybe even two.

Or my whole life, maybe?

I know I said this last year. But, the food is great. The beds get easier. I don't mind walking everywhere (it works off all the food we eat!), and I could learn the language.

*sigh* I guess all good things must come to an end.

I soon fell asleep, thank God. :)

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Yesterday morning (Monday) Elyssa and I were so tired that we decided to skip breakfast and sleep in a little. I'm glad I did--I hardly eat breakfast at home anyways. And we've been eating huge meals every day, that I wasn't even hungry.

We were sent straight to the baby room when we got to the orphanage. I found one of the babies whose being adopted, Austin, and played with him all morning. I've already told his parents--but he loves playing with the balls we brought, and has quite the arm. I see a possible future in football or baseball for this boy ;) he's very happy, and reminds me of a little teddy bear. I really enjoyed playing with him.
Austin and Me

The time came for us to leave, and we all said goodbye. Many of us have grown attached to our own baby at this orphanage, so it was hard. Tears streamed down faces.

Lori had a child, about 2 or 3 years old, who became attached to her. She had quite the attitude, and wanted nothing to do with anyone. Lori somehow broke through to her, and every time she left this week, this girl would cry. She did not want to leave Lori (you can read about her at Lori's blog at http://fiveofmyown.blogspot.com--she refers to her as Mu Shu Pork, haha!). That was hard for both of them, I think.
Lori w/her Mu Shu


Saying goodbye. Its never easy, and it doesn't get easier as time passes. Unfortunately.

For lunch not too many were hungry, so instead of eating our large Chinese lunches, we ran to KFC. Of course. I've never eaten this much fast food in one week. Eww.

Elyssa and I ran over to the market to find some candies and juice. We were able to successfully shop without being yelled at by the chocolate lady. Though, when I walked down the aisle with the Dove chocolate, she ran over and acted like she was checking prices. I just don't understand.

At the hotel I tried to pack a little bit. Somehow when I packed, my checked suitcase filled up really quickly. I did take most of my clothes out of my carry on... But still. That thing was huge and FULL of donations. I don't get how I fit everything I had in there into my carry ons on the way here.

For the afternoon at the orphanage we thought it'd be nice to throw a little party. So we bought the kids a cake and brought it over.

As we walked over that day Elyssa looks over at me and says, "well, this is our last walk to the orphanage." *tear*

When we got there, we were told to go upstairs. When I walked down the hall, the older kids were all standing by the door peeking out. When I looked in the door, there was my little boy sweeping.

I wondered as we were walking whether or not he'd be there. I figured he would be at school because he normally is. I hoped he would be, but I almost hoped he wouldn't, because I knew it'd be hard to see his face and have to say goodbye. Especially after last year when he started crying.

But there he was. The crazy girl came and took my hand and ran around... Crazy as she always is ;)

We brought them downstairs and sat them down. We opened the cake and the look on their faces was great. We put a candle in the cake. This candle was really cool--it was a flower, and when you lit it, it opened up and blossomed and sang! I was more amazed than the kids, I think. Haha.

We served cake and juice, and they devoured it. Frosting was all over faces :)

The oldest girl (13) and my boy, Will, were able to have some before they left for school. But soon after eating they had to leave. I grabbed him and gave him a huge hug and got one last picture with him. Tears filled my eyes, but I kept myself from actually crying.

After cleaning up the cake we brought all of our dress up items out. Costumes, hair clips, headbands with colored hair attached, necklaces, tutus, glasses, and dragon tails. They all just loved it. It was funny to see the kids who tried to get one of everything on their body. The crazy girl was one of those, of course. I just love her so much. She has so much personality, its great.

After dressing up we put on some music and had a little parade/dance in the room. I held hands with Miss Crazy and a sweet little girl with down syndrome. We danced and played all around. Crazy kept bending backwards relying on me to keep her from falling--I don't know how that girl does it. She's so flexible. The other girl was just smiling away, jumping up and down. :)

To calm them down, we took out little scratch-off ornaments. The kids had a lot of fun with them. It was cool to see how artistic a lot of them are. Miss Crazy drew some lovely flowers. She came up to me and held it up like she wanted a picture, so I took one. Then she handed them to me. I asked if they were for me, and she nodded yes.

I cried.

She's such a sweet girl, and for her to give them to me, it just made me so happy.

I gave her a BIG hug and told her thank you. She thought the hug was so funny. She just laughed and laughed. After that she would keep coming up to me and giving me hugs. And I realized, I don't think I've ever given her an actual hug--and obviously our team hasn't either for her to think it was so funny (I mean, its not like we've ever been able to get her still long enough to give a hug;)). That girl is nothing but fun. Always laughing and smiling. I don't think I've ever seen her upset--and when she is, its only over small things.



Oh, can I also say that the girl that I mentioned a few days ago (the one with the muscle disorder) was smiling today--the biggest smile I've seen all week. Members from our team all spent a little time with her today, and she was so happy to be dressed up and marching around. It really touched my heart.

I left a little early to go find some babies who are being adopted. Their new parents wanted some updates on how they were doing. I played with a few of them, and then the rest of the team came up. They said they had said their goodbyes and took a group picture. I was kind of sad I missed it. But I had left my bag downstairs, so I ran down to get it.

I was pleased to see all the kids were still down there. I went around and gave each of them kisses on the cheek. When I got to Miss Crazy, she wrapped her arm around me and laughed.

I'm going to miss her so much.

I said goodbye and blew more kisses and left. The elevator ride up seemed so long. I don't know why, but goodbyes seem so much worse when you're by yourself.

None of us expected to be back in the baby room again. We had already said our goodbyes, but I think most were happy to have more time. Though Lori says, "oh I don't wanna do this again. I already ripped this bandaid off once... Now I'll have to do it again."

Back in the baby room I played and fed miss Lyla. I've already emailed her parents, but she's also a very happy baby. She just loves being played with. She's ticklish and loves playing airplane. And she's a very small girl, but as cute as can be.

Time came to say our real goodbyes. In the elevator all we could hear was sniffles.

We had a meeting with the director and presidents of the orphanage. They told us how grateful they were that we came and helped out. And they said they hoped we would come again someday. They presented us with gifts. Each of us got a map of Chenzhou and a beautiful piece of embroidery, case and stand to go with it. It was very pretty.

As we left the oldest girl (13) was walking back from school. I ran up to her and gave her a big hug. As we walked on, I looked back to see her smiling face once more and prayed that if I ever came back, she would not be here because she had found a family.

We went out to dinner with the directors and a few of the nannies. They took us to the same place as last year. I sat down, and it felt so different. Last year Will and the older girl came with us, and they sat on either side of me. I remember as each new food came around they got excited and asked me to get it for them. And I wasn't so great at chopsticks, and I wasn't able to get it for them fast enough. Haha. I was like their mother for a night, and I hardly ate anything.
I got to eat my food last night, but it wasn't exciting. I would have rather gone hungry and had those kids with me again, than to eat a nice meal. But that's okay.

The dinner was very nice. Shannon was bold enough to pray and we had Fun (our guide) translate. The food was great. With the help of Fun, we were able to ask questions and talk with the directors. I really did enjoy myself. Even with the lack of kids.

Lori and Shannon were curious about our trip compared to last year. I'd say it was about the same. Though we did not get to spend as much time with the older kids, it was worth it. All the hard work and stress to get here was so worth it. If I had only gotten to see them for a day, it would have been worth it. I was just happy to be back.

We also thought that we built more of a relationship with the orphanage and the workers. I think the fact that a team from VO cared enough to come back and love on them and the kids, really made a difference. I hope a team comes back next year so we do keep up that relationship. Because really, by the end, I felt like they were my friends. I love them all so very much.

I think we had a lot of people saying they would come back again if they could. Maybe a Chenzhou team in 2012 will be filled with many from this year's team. I would hope so. How amazing would that be? I hope I can come back again.

Shannon said that if she were to come back again, she would want someone on the team who could speak the language. Fun was wonderful, but sometimes it was still hard. And we all felt bad because we would just bombard her with questions. I told her I really am going to work on learning Mandarin this year. I know I said it last year, but this time I mean it. Hah. I'm going to do it.

She also said that next year she'll suggest spending more time there. It felt like we were just beginning to know the kids and build their trust, and we had to leave. The director said it would be fine, and that we could stay as long as we wanted if we were to come back. We may just take her up on that offer ;)

We had to say goodbye, but not before pictures. The director was sweet and pulled me close to her in the picture. We gave hugs and said bye. I think it was hardest for me to say goodbye to the head nanny. She was my favorite last year (and still is), and she's just so sweet. You can really tell she loves the children with all her heart and she cares for us as well.

We walked away, and it was just a weird feeling, knowing we would not wake up to go see the kids tomorrow morning.

We got back and I was so tired. It was a draining day--physically and emotionally. I packed up the rest of my stuff, wrote some updates on babies to send to their waiting parents, and went to bed.

I am now sitting on the bus driving to Changsha. About 3 hours ago I looked out the window and watched the view of Chenzhou leave my window. Its just a weird feeling. It can't be described. The kids just leave such a great mark on your life, and you wish you could take them all home. Or stay forever.

Oh well.

Today we drive to Changsha, and then we fly to Beijing. Tomorrow we'll be spending the day at Shepard's Field playing with the kids and such. And then the next day will be sightseeing/shopping.

I probably won't blog tonight, because nothing too interesting will be happening.

Though, the last time I said that, our group leader's purse got stolen. So hopefully, that statement will be true this time. Haha.

Thank you all for your prayers. I believe they helped us all. For the most part we composed our tears yesterday. Even though I was sad to leave, I felt a peace that the Lord is looking over that orphanage, and has great plans for those kids.