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Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Coming Together

Whether young or old, abled or disabled, it is such a privilege to build friendships and to encourage each other.  
Coming together to watch the movie Chronicles of Narnia was great, but the best part of this afternoon was seeing each other again. Several of these individuals took part in April's adult retreat.
This young lady has attended the Family Retreat twice: once in 2010 and again in 2015.
This young man was so excited to have guests that it was hard for him to contain his energy. Thankfully, he stayed still long enough for a photo.
It was good to see Clyde again. Although he is still paralyzed from the waist down, he is able to sit up well, and he is regaining strength. We pray for the rebuilding of mind, body and spirit.
~ Kevin

Fun in the Leaves

Molly had a get-together with several of her classmates at an agriculture college campus to enjoy the autumn leaves. 
This is also the time of year when our neighbors place cabbages out to dry in preparation for making sauerkraut this winter. (This is the closest we get to taking our kids to a pumpkin patch!)
Happy Fall, y'all!
~Dayna

Saturday, October 17, 2015

October 17 Day Camp

For this day camp, we served 21 families, the majority of whom we have known for a few years. They have attended various activities in the past, including day camps, picnics, English classes and family retreats. These families come together as family.
As the key message today, we focused on Max Lucado's book You Are Special. Thanks to book donations from a group in Beijing, we have used You Are Special several times with the children, but this was the first time we discussed it with the parents. Although a children's book, the themes were significant for the parents. Even into break times, mothers continued discussing the book. 
I (Kevin) led simple English songs.
The kids also enjoyed drawing and crafts with beads and modeling clay.
Shirley, who had read the book You Are Special to the kids, taught the whole group an accompanying song.
Helen served as the emcee for the kids as they sang solos, recited poetry or played a flute. Even kids who could barely speak wanted to participate.
Although this photo does not show the whole group (65 individuals participated), all of the children are present. Also, the volunteers from Dayna's newest group of students are in the photo.
After the group photo, several families took individual shots before having to say good bye.
This little guy was our youngest participant. His nap began as the day camp ended.
~ Kevin

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Follow up

I had not expected to return to this town so soon, but I was glad to follow up with new friends. These photos give a glimpse.  
~ Kevin