We're Here - I Promise!

Hey everyone!! Sorry, it has been so long since I've written! We haven't been able to get to the internet cafe as often as we would like, and when we're there we only have a limited amount of time. We now have new roomates, though, and the man has been gracious enough to let me borrow his laptop for tonight. I'm going to do my best to let you know what has happened, but it has been a lot, so PLEASE make sure you get the wonderful details from us when we get back. :)

One of the most important things that I left out in the last blog is how things are going with the bore hole at Legogote Primary School. The surveyor came out last week, and spent about an hour using his fun instruments to figure out where water would be. He found two possible places. The team and I have faith that the drillers will find water, but please keep that in your prayers. The surveyor said we should have it checked with the local authorities just to make sure we're following local protocol. Well, we had planned on meeting with the local Magistrate of Jerusalem, but when we went to meet with him we were met with a pretty cool surprise. We actually got to meet with the CHIEF of Masoyi! We wanted to ask for his blessing, and make sure that this well is used primarily for the students at the school. (We don't mind others using it, but we don't want it to be abused and then dry up for the kids.) The chief was very encouraging, and he did give us his blessing. He said that there has been no water found in that area, though. Again, we really aren't worried. God has been so evident in all the happenings since we've gotten here, but I think our faith would please Him - so just keep praying that 1) Water would be found, and 2) If at all possible we could be here for the beginning of the drilling.

As for Bible Clubs they're going phenomenally!! We've had close to 150 orphans at each site, and they are always very energetic during the songs, super attentive during the story, and loving during our "hang-out" time. (I'm starting to think we get just as much love FROM these orphans as we give to them. It's neat how God works.)

I wanted to make sure I filled you in on the "generals" of our trip so far, but what makes this trip amazing are all the little stories we have to tell. Each one of us gets to bond with different kids at each site, and that's what makes this trip incredibly special. I want to tell you about one I had yesterday (on my most perfect birthday!). I had just finished telling the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego when five 12 and 13 year olds came up to me and started talking. I had a lot of fun talking with them, and their English was amazing! One girl in particular was very special. She had a very sweet spirit, and was very interested in finding out more about me. I was able to tell her about my family, what I did, and about my friends. I found out about her as well. When it was time for her to leave she asked me when I was coming back. I told her that I hoped very soon. She gave me a hug and kiss, and told me she would miss me. When she walked away she was crying. It absolutely broke me heart. However, I was able to see her again! She came up to me just to say goodbye again, and I found out during this conversation that she goes to the school that we're drilling the well for! We talked a little more, and then she asked if she could have a Bible. I gave her one, and she started crying again. It's amazing how just a small interaction with a person can be so powerful. God is amazing, and He is sure loving on some orphans down here in South Africa!

OK, the couple's back, and I feel bad hogging their computer. Thanks for the prayers! And, I promise I will do my best to update you sooner rather than later. I love you, and am so very thankful for you!! Have an amazing Thursday!