The eight day -- fun, siestas, and sadness

Dio numero ocho

Our last full day in La Paz has brought us to the end of an incredible and heart warming journey. For some of us it was the first time we had a chance to make new amigos, for others it was a chance to visit with extended family. Our day began very early today as we had to be ready for a government inspection so everything had to be in tip top shape. La Paz is in a valley in the mountains and it is currently the dry season... and there is dust and smoke everywhere. The Ninos de Amor work very hard to keep everything clean but go the extra mile to make sure that there is no extra fines when an inspector is coming. Edty is the main person in charge here when Mama Doris is out of town and she was in full commander mode to make sure everything was just right. We spent the morning cleaning with the children and then getting setup for Bible school in the Chapel at 9 am.

Today's lesson was on the 4th commandment "Honor thy mother and father" which is really interesting to do at an orphanage! Iliana lead them to have the kids call out any authority figure that they could and wrote them down. Then Robby Rojas led them in a lesson to discuss that even all these authority figures are subservient to God. The children did a presentation, then we had some coloring for them and handed out backpacks. We had time for some tug of war, the kids then had some lunch and played on the playground, with balls, or jump rope. What a fulfilling end to a wonderful week. After all the kids left bible study many of us had the chance for a little afternoon siesta. Some of us just used the concrete floor in the chapel!

We played with the kids some more and went for dinner at Chincha's. When we came back to the foundation the kids had a wonderful and moving presentation for us and we all received a CD of Punta music from Tecka. Tomorrow we leave in what is certain to be an emotional day. This will be our last post for this trip. Pray for our safe return and for the children at the Foundation, and all the people of La Paz. Perhaps one day we will have regular services here.

Hasta la vista from Team 1, 2009.