Brazil Reflections

Speaking as someone who feels fulfilled by physically serving others' needs, this experience taught me about the importance of building relationships--that it's better to interact and connect before jumping right into work. I met so many wonderful people and formed so many friendships, and I'm more grateful than words can express that I was encouraged to focus on these people instead of becoming consumed by "getting the job done."

I was surprised that the language barrier seemed so small compared to what I was expecting. I thought it would be near impossible to communicate, but with the little English that they knew, the little Portuguese that Cheryl had taught us, often creative actions (especially on Ingrid's part), and lots of smiles, somehow we were able to put together a language we all understood.

Ella Broadbooks

Brazil Reflections

The Mission Trip to Lar Batista was a life changing experience. The children didn't have many toys but that isn't what they wanted. All they want is love, attention and to play with us. Simple. Amazing how they have had such hardships in their lives and seem to conquer it and have having faith and believing in Christ; also being sweet and have a huge smile on their faces. My live will be forever changed. It is definite that the Lord has this orphanage in the palm of his hand.

-Amy Blize

Thursday Update

Painting, painting, painting! We are all very dirty from paint at the moment, after painting both the inside and outside of the girls' dorm. Tomorrow will be our last day at Lar Batista, although we're trying not to think about saying goodbye. We've made so many good friends and created so many memories -- not to mention (most likely) gained several pounds from the incredible food! You will never fully know how much we appreciate all your prayer and support. Blessings to all, and see you soon!

After a hard day's work and play yesterday, we awoke to cloudy skies this morning. Sure enough, it started raining as we ate breakfast. Your dedicated workers started sanding the walls of the girls' dorm despite the weather. With the help of about a hundred kids, we finished that step and moved on to cleaning and the actual painting. We finished putting the first coat of paint on the seven rooms and the hallway at about two in the afternoon. The food is even more scrumptious and the kids are so much fun and helpful! We've been working hard, playing hard, and learning a ton.

Oi (Portuguese for `hi´) from Mom, Tyler, Dalton, and Gracie! I miss you so much and can´t wait to see you once again - I love you. --Angela

Mom, I'm eating my vegetables. --Ella

Judy and Roger: I talked them into putting your name on the blog; you're now famous. --Tara

Bret: Wish you were here experiencing what we are. Having a great time despite the rain today. --Amy

Juao Paulo, Cheyenne, Gabriela, and Bia around Bruno.

Ingrid and Angela (water bottle is now missing in action)

Bruno in Jorge's glasses.

A typical evening after dinner -- enjoying conversation and lots of laughter in the courtyard.

Oi from Brazil!

It's a testament to the business at Lar that we haven't been able to share until today -- between playing with the kids, going to church, and remodeling the girls' dorm, we've barely had time to breathe, let alone get across the street to post on the blog!

Our travel went as smoothly as we could hope for; no flights were delayed, and we didn't have to run to a single gate.

We were welcomed like long-lost family when we arrived late on Saturday, especially in terms of the UNBELIEVABLE food! (We decided after the very first meal that we would all come home with more weight.)

The past couple days have been busier than anyone expected. We were put to work today on the girls' dorm after spending Sunday playing with the kids and going to church in the morning and evening. We've been able to do a lot more than originally anticipated thanks to the generous donations of the Global Cafe and the congregation of Prairie Ridge. Our ears are all ringing after spending the day listening to roofs and ceilings being torn down -- we were originally only going to have enough to paint the building, but because of your generosity we're going to be able to replace the roof, ceilings, and several doors in addition to repainting both the inside and outside.

Words can't express how much we appreciate all your prayers, support, and encouragement.
I tried to think of a legitimate excuse to post this picture of baby Bruno, but I decided I didn't really need one. :)
We just saved a bunch of money on our car insurance by switching to Geico!
(Our uninvited roommate the first night)
We created a new policy: No more wallpaper at Lar unless it's there TO STAY.
We're having so much fun, we're flipping out! :)