Miracle Village

Saturday June 11, 2011

2011-06-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

Back in the USA...Yay!

Friday June 10, 2011

2011-06-10T04:17:00.000-07:00

Our last day...It's been a good trip, but I believe everyone is ready to get back home and see their families. We had a very busy day in Jesus yesterday, a great way to end the mission. The team has worked well together and new friendships made. Will be finishing up on home deliveries of food today, then a run to town to spend the last of ur soles before heading to the airport this afternoon. We have a long day ahead of us so continue to pray for us for traveling safety. We leave Cajamarca this afternoon at 4pm and the Texas folks will not get back to their hometown until Saturday at 9pm. Will try to update as we travel.

Wednesday June 8

2011-06-08T20:38:00.000-07:00

This past week has been a blessing to us all. I really wish that I could relive each and every day that I have spent here. I initially fell in love with the Peruvians. They have such sweet personalities. We first arrived in Lima and were taken to our hotel. They actually had REAL KEYS! You don’t see that in America. Early the next morning, we visited the Indian Market, and boy did we have a blast! We showed up and they opened their shops so we “gringos” could do our shopping. We had our fun and got on our plane to Cajamarca. Arriving in the airport was a bit different. As we stepped out of the plane, we could look around and see farmland and cows. Our luggage was loaded up into a truck and we were off to Villa Milagro. You cannot imagine how many bags they can pack into one truck. They have some professional packing skills. The day after we arrived, we were sent off to the market to buy food for families that were chosen for us. Now, that was a challenge, considering we speak VERY LITTLE Spanish. However, they were very helpful and didn’t mind the difficulty in communication. Once we purchased our food, our groups were sent for delivery. Tears filled our eyes as the families thanked us over and over, and hugged and kissed us. The time spent at the orphanage was very heart-warming. We played for hours with the kiddos. It was extremely hard not to get attached. They were so grateful for everything we gave them. Not once did I hear someone complain about the food not tasting the way they liked it, or the toys not being good enough. (Not that I would have understood it anyway….) Within the next few days we were sent on a three hour bus ride to Chancay. I cannot begin to explain how beautiful the place that we stayed at was. We were so excited to see our room assignments and the rooms we were given. Everyone seemed to have a room but Monica, Mikayla, Becky, Vicki, and I. We looked around for our room for a couple of minutes until one of our Peruvian helpers came and unlocked this door in the middle of the hall. I’m pretty sure you can guess that it was our room. When I first stepped in the room, I thought, we’re sleeping in an attic… There was a stack of mattresses in the corner that we had to pull down and dress with sheets. After dinner, my roommates and I went back to our “attic” and started winding down for bed. I began to actually like our room. And I started to actually feel guilty for feeling the way I did about it when I first saw it. People here in Peru are lucky to have somewhere to sleep, and I’m going to complain about a roof over my head, a bed, and some blankets? We don’t appreciate the little things we have. It’s not about what we don’t have. We Americans focus on all of the things we don’t have. It’s all about what you have and being grateful for it. I didn’t see one orphan complain about not having something. I didn’t hear a single child complain about having to walk a mile or so to get to school. We Americans are very blessed and we don’t even see it. My prayer for returning to the states is, I will no longer complain about not having the right clothes or a ride to school. My prayer is that we will better appreciate the MANY things we are given. My prayer is that we can be more like the Peruvians, more Christ-like.
-Adrianne Jackson

6/8/2011
Hola!  I am so blessed to have been chosen by God to proclaim His name here in Peru and to help fulfill the Great Commission. I feel like I have received more from this trip than the Peruvians have because my eyes have been opened to soooo many things. I have been convicted on my own wastefulness and the way I take many things for granted. For example when I complain to my mom that we have nothing to eat when we actually have a pantry full and there is just nothing that I want to eat. But here the people really don’t have anything to eat and often don’t know what their next meal will be. There were two boys in Chancay, Jose and Lenard, and they were absolutely adorable. They each had a bag of chips and they both insisted on sharing with me. This reminded me of Cain and Abel. Abel’s sacrifice to God was accepted because he gave his finest lambs, which were irreplaceable, while Cain gave some of his crop, which could easily be replaced the next harvest, and this was not accepted. These two boys reminded me of Abel because they gave that which was not replaceable, their food, which is so valuable here. It was so heart-warming to see that someone would sacrifice something so precious just to show appreciation. The other missionaries here are so fun we’ve become like a family and it’s kinda sad to go home. The first day here Becky and I were teamed with Danny, a pharmacist from Arkansas, to go shopping in the market for food in Cajamarca. He was so funny and we had a blast, him picking the items and Becky and I attempting to translate. The language barrier has been sort of challenging but it’s mostly fun because I know enough Spanish to get me by. I’ve been praying for help with communication and prayers have definitely been answered. However I’m pretty sure that “Estoy aqui para un viaje para Jesus Cristo” is not correct, but hopefully the message gets across haha. I’m excited to return to the states to share stories of this trip with everyone and to live a more grateful lifestyle for everything that I’ve been blessed with.
-Monica Riojas

Tuesday June 7, 2011

2011-06-07T19:22:00.000-07:00

One, Twos, Tres….. (how Danny Ponder has begun to learn Spanish)
Wow, what a whirlwind three days. I have been witness to some amazing occurrences. This morning we woke up at 5:30 in hopes that we would still get a smidgen of hot water from the shower. Nope—all gone. We were served another wonderful breakfast by Peru’s own Paula Dean, Nancy, from Villa Milagro. I almost feel guilty eating the way we have, delicious meal after meal, but Brother Mike put my guilt at ease with his mini sermon tonight. The Bible clearly stated in Luke 10:8, “When you enter a town, eat what is set before you.” Yep, guilt gone.
We walked to the clinic this morning and it was so refreshing. The weather here has been much more pleasant than the weather in Arkansas from what I hear. God blesses these people with a landscape that cannot be described. I have taken almost 700 pictures, and none can do it justice. The gates were scattered with a few people, but more would pour in later. We had already been set up from the day before, so things began to move much quicker. People were triaged and sent to dental, medical, and lenses. At first people looked apprehensive, but that soon turned into appreciation. In the dental clinic, patients started to trickle in. Many people needed several extractions, but only wanted one or two teeth extracted. Several people wanted their teeth cleaned as well. Sparing you the dental terminology, we had a lot of what we needed, but not enough to help everyone. I got to anesthetize a few patients, a privilege reserved for dental hygienists and dentists in the United States. Every one who helped in dental was able to extract a tooth. The people of Chancay, and many other villages in the surrounding area, were very grateful. I know, because, I have been gifted with understanding people with wads of gauze in their mouth. Some women even let a few of us try on their prized possession, their sombrero to take “fotos”. It might not have been a very smart move, but it was an honor. Please pray that we do not have an outbreak of lice in the next few days.
Toward the end of the day, I made an unofficial transfer request to the Lenses area (our dental patients were completed for the time being). What heart warming moments I experienced. A man burst out after he put on a pair of reading glasses that allowed him to read John 3:16. I will never forget the smile on his face. It was a refreshing switch from dentistry. Although we probably clinically helped those people a little more, they weren’t always leaving with a smile if you know what I mean.
After seeing a fourteen year old who traveled very far alone because of a toothache, it was nice to take Spanish lessons from a few four year olds through chalk drawing animals on the sidewalk. It was hard to see all of those children whose size did not represent their age. I miss my girls so much, but from this experience I will be a better parent and a better person. I will be a better neighbor and a better Christian. I thank God for this trip and this opportunity to minister to these people through the many things we have done.
Amber

Tuesday June 7, 2011

2011-06-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

We are back
We are back from a two day medical mission. We had a great time and saw God really work. Everyone had lots to do. Chris and Jimmy even pulled some teeth. We really miss everyone!!!!
I love you mom and dad. Thanks for taking care of eveything while we are gone. I love you Sam, Kimberly, Natalie, Matt, Pam, Brent, Allie, Nate, Cole, and Zeke. I can't wait to see you all!!!
Love,
Tabby

I miss you Ma, Granddad, Uncle Sam, Uncle Matt, Uncle Brent, Aunt Natalie, Aunt Pam, Aunt Kimberly, Allie, Nate, Cole, and Zeke.
Love,
Erin
cle
I hope all of you are having fun. I miss you Ma, Granddad, Uncle Sam, Aunt Kimberly, Aunt Natalie, Uncle Matt, Aunt Pam, Uncle Brent Allie, Nate, Cole,Zeke, Grandma, and Grandpa.
Love,
Kelsey

Sunday June 5, 2011

2011-06-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a long and fulfilling day. We started our day by going to the market downtown which is an experience in itself. It's a large building covering about a block that houses 150 (más o menos) small stalls selling everything you could want except maybe Doritoes... Yarnell's ice cream...packaged meat...it's all fresh and hanging to be bought... including organ meats, cows feet, chicken feet, sheep feet, duck feet, pigs feet (I have pictures of all if you don't believe me) along with cow heads, sheep heads, chicken heads, duck heads, pig heads...well, you get the picture without me showing you, I think. We split into teams of 5 and each team bought staple food for 2 families each to last 2-4 weeks. None of the vendors speak English, so it was a challenge for some to negotiate a deal. In the afternoon, we came back to Villa Milagro and separated the food and then made some of the deliveries to the families that had been selected by the VM staff and Monte Sion Church as being the neediest. It's always an emotional experience to go into their homes, such as they are and actually see how they live and feel their gratitude for what we bring. We all wished we could have given more.
Saturday evening, we went to the orphanage and played with the children, then had a weiner and marshmallow roast. Several ladies bonded with the llama but couldn't get too close for fear of getting spit on. The children are shy at first but quickly respond to all the attention. Most ate 2-3 hotdogs and one little boy ate 5 on our last count.
This morning (Sunday), we had church here at Villa Milagro with Bro. Mike Shy delivering a wonderful message on knowing God. Today is a very important election day in Peru, the presidental run-off. In Peru, you must travel back to your home town to vote, or pay a high fine and it is illegal to conduct any kind of meeting such as a church service. Therefore, they did not have church at Monte Sion where we usually go, plus Pastor Elmer is from the coast and had to travel home to vote. We have been busy packing and getting ready to go to a village called Chancay that we have been to before, about 3 hours away. We'll be leaving sometime after lunch and will probably not be back in contact until Tuesday evening. Everyone is well, almost...one of our dentist is a little under the weather after playing soccer with the kids at the orphanage last night...altitude, altitude, altitude! He's says he's feeling OK now. Please continue to pray for us as we travel and hold clinic in Chancay!

Saturday June 4, 2011

2011-06-04T05:20:00.000-07:00

Up and having breakfast, Doyne says we are doing something that nobody else in Peru is doing, eating biscuits and gravy, plus eggs and ham. We've had one with a little upset stomach (Hunter Cummings), but he is feeling better this morning. We are going to divide into teams and go to the market to buy food for 10 poor families this morning.

Friday, June 3, 2011

2011-06-03T06:15:00.000-07:00

44 people, 88 checked bags and about that many carry-on's and we all made it to Lima! Going to the Indian market for a little shopping (first things first, of course!) and then leaving hotel at 11 this morning for airport and afternoon flight to Cajamarca. All is well (a little tired, but well) after arriving at hotel at 2:30 this morning.

Back to civilization...sorta

2011-01-20T12:36:00.000-08:00

Well, at least we feel like we are back to civilization just having clear (notice I didn't say clean, but at this point, clear is a step up in the right direction) water.
First, my apologies to Bo for leaving him out on the last post. I realized during the night after I had posted last that I had left him out of what everyone was doing and I apologized to him the next morning. Bo has been a big help in several places. We've had him working in the pharmacy counting pills as well as keeping labels printed for us. David (my brother) said he took one look at him and knew he could do what we needed on the computer (he's young). Several have moved around and worked in different spots, some have kept in their same station the whole time. I can't tell you now who was doing what on a particular day, but I can tell you, every day went smooth and everything that needed to get done, was done...without one single complaint!

We are back in Iquitos where the water coming out of the shower may not be clean en ough to let it go in your mouth, but at least it looks clear. Everyone was ready to get back to the hotel and take a clean shower, especially those on the party barge. The air conditioning went out on The Good on Monday, however, we couldn’t complain considering those on the party barge have not had air. As it turned out, it wasn’t that bad without air because we were all out working during the hot part of the day and then we moved during the night to another place to work and as long as the boat were moving there was enough breeze to keep us comfortable. The trip has been great! The conditions have not been less than desirable, but several people (including some of the boat crew) have been saved and we’ve treated many sick folks…it’s all been worth it! Our clinic days have vairied from calm and smooth to absolutely crazy! One day we saw 904 patients…that’s ridiculous…and a new high for Villa Milagro. Total patients seen for the trip was 3,200. I was expecting we would end up with somewhere around 4,000, but with all the change in plans, we stopped at several villages that were not expecting us. Not a problem…once a couple of big boats loaded with gringos docked pulled up, most of the villagers would come see what was going on and it wasn’t long before they were lined up to be treated. One village we stopped at doesn’t have a church and the leader of the village was saved that morning and now is wanted a church built there!
All had parasites and were treated, along with everyone in their household. Of course, it’s only going to help for a short period of time since most dring water out of the river. Jennifer was upset when after pulling a tooth out of a little girl, she saw her a few minutes later down on the bank scooping water out of the river to rinse her mouth out.
The river is really wide and very muddy. There is a book written by Jacque Cousteau that says there is enough water coming out of this river to fill Lake Ontario in 3 hours. It’s pretty impressive…but yet, we have grown tired of taking showers and washing? our hands in muddy water…directly out of the river.
We haven’t seen many animals, a couple of monkeys, pink dolphins, and only one snake. The village we were at a day or 2 ago (our days have started to run together), a very poisonous snake was killed up the path in front of the huts and the captain of the boat came across it, killed it and brought it back on the boat,…for a little while…and some people were not getting close to it, even though it was dead. Also yesterday, January 19, we worked in a village named 20 de Enero—January 20th. The town was founded on the 20th of January back in the 70’s and they were having a big celebration with soccer tournaments (‘real football’) and some loud music above where we were docked. We had planned to spend the night there, but went to plan P (we’ve long gone through plan A, plan B…) and left so we didn’t have to listen to the party all night long.
We have eaten well, but after eating rice 2 times a day EVERY day on the boat, no one is expected to order it for supper tonight. We have eaten a lot of fish that was de-wish-ous (our my nephew Carter use to say) and pollo (chicken). Oh, and we must not forget the bananas. We feel like Bubba Gump and his shrimp…we’ve had fresh big bananas, little plantains (sweet bananas), fried bananas, fried bananas in sugar, fried banana strips with salt, steamed bananas…. We’ve had other good fruits as well. The avocadoes and mangoes and very good here.
That is all for now. Hear there is snow back home in Arkansas…can’t imagine that with all the heat here! If this is all gumbled, forgive me. My brain feels fried right now!

Friday...this is Friday, isn´t it¿

2011-01-14T17:44:00.000-08:00

What a great and productive day we´ve had! People started lining up at daylight and when it was all said and done, we saw almost 600 people! Thank goodness for lots of hard workers! We have 2 Peruvian doctors with us (Dr. Ron and Dr. Aldo), plus Linda McIntosh (NP from Des Arc) and Jan Louck (NP from Dallas) seeing patients. Debbie Johnson is translating for Linda and we have a Peruvian, Julio, who speaks good English translating for Jan. They occupy the second floor of The Ugly, or the party barge, as I now like to call it. On the third floor, we have a Peruvian dentist and Jennifer Dilday from Batesville pulling teeth...watch out Dr. Beller and Dr. Beller, she´s going to pull more teeth this week than you will all year. Pat Jackson from Christoval, Texas is helping translate for Jennifer. Also helping in the dental area are Rog and Pam Burton from Benton, Alan Atchley from Hot Springs and Bob McMahon from North Carolina, and Lawana Kiser from San Angelo, TX. The optical shop and photo shop are also on the 3rd floor. Bob Goodman and Tom Dufrense are the designated eye people. Manning the photo booth are Tony Jones and Martial Harrell from Christoval, TX. Everyone that comes through are getting a picture of themselves. They love it! On the 1st floor, we have Barb Layrock, a nurse from Searcy working triage, along with a couple of Peruvian ladies helping write down names and information. Next to triage, we have a couple of new nurses in training, John Jenkins and David Dickinson from Benton-Hot Springs taking blood pressures and handing out Bibles. Everyone gets a Spanish New Testament. Also on the 1st floor, we have our toy hand out area manned by Sharon Carpenter from Salem, Deb Atchley and Mary Goodman from Hot Springs. Kelly Tucker from Little Rock is also helping entertain the children, when we can get him penned down long enough. He tends to like to roam. :-) Also on 1st is our worminators, Tami Campbell from Salem and Murf Defrense from San Angelo. The pharmacy is in the hull on the first floor. Here you will find Darla York from Salem, Mike Rutherford from Atlanta, Jordan Hughey from Little Rock, and Kent Terrill from Christoval, TX, and me. The we have our runners...the folks who keep the patient flow going...Daniel Tucker, Deirdra and Justin Kervin, Dave Hughey all from Geyer Springs Baptist Church. I spoke to quick about everyone being well. Bro. Dave Hughey was a little under the weather today, but was feeling some better at supper. I hope I haven´t left off any team members. Everyone is working hard, but having a great time. We will work here again tomorrow and as soon as we finish clinic, will pull up anchor and start back down the river. We´ll boat all night and stop at smaller villages along the way to work during the day and then boat at night. It will probably be several days before we have computer access again. Thanks for the continued prayers. I will pass along your messages. Naomi

Thursday

2011-01-13T17:15:00.000-08:00

We finally made it! After a little bit more drama and going full blast 3 days and nigts on the river, we finally made it to San Lorenzo, Peru. Monday was another day of negotiation and finishing preparations. As I mentioned before, we started out with The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly. It turns out that The Good (has air and private bathrooms) had been docked up the river for some time because the owner was having problems paying her Peru taxes, and while it was up the river, it was stripped of everything...beds, chairs, linens, EVERTHING. So, in order for us to use it, we had to buy all new mattresses, linens, some beds, chairs, dishes, etc. They were still loading the boat with new purchases until early Monday afternoon. While that was taking place, those of us (12 people, not 13, not 11, but 12) on The Bad (the difficult Frenchman´s boat) had to leave the dock at noon and go through sort of a customs that the Frenchman insisted on. It wasn´t a big deal to us, but we had to take off and leave all the other team members behind to wait for The Good to finish preparation. They all boarded The Ugly to wait while their bags and backpacks had been loaded on The Good. Long story short, they were without food until about 9 pm.
About 3 hours after The Bad had left Iquitos, David (my brother) found out from the captain of the boat that The Good and The Bad only will go 6 knots an hour and that it would take 5 days to make it to San Lorenzo. Of course, all of this had been discussed when negotiations were made to secure the boats, but the owners failed to share that even though we had a strict itineray, there was no way we could keep it since their boats were so slow. It would mean after we came all this way, we would only have 2 days to work. Unacceptalble!
Well, the captain of The Ugly came up with a solution. The Ugly will go up to 20 knots an hour and could get us to San Lorenzo on time. He was willing to tie The Good on one side and The Bad on the other side and take off. The captain of The Good was agreeable, and the captain of The Bad was agreeable until he talked to the Frenchman back at the base. Final solution--at midnight, the 12 of us packed up all our stuff (1st time ever in my life I have unpacked my suitcase...so proud I was organized), we loaded up all the food and supplies and even syphoned off the fuel which we had purchased, and wave goodbye to The Bad. The Good, about 80 X 30 foot, latched on to the side of The Ugly, about 150 X 40 foot and away we went almost 3 times as fast as we had been going. After some rearranging and thanks to several of the guys volunteering to transferring to The Ugly, we finally got in beds about 2 or 3 AM. I should say hammocks for some of those on The ugly. The rooms are tiny, eough space for 2 bunks built on one side and barely enough room to slide in to get in the bed...some didn´t feel like there was enough room for them and the roaches who were also staying in those rooms! Everyone has been in very good spirits and very understanding about all the complications that seem to have come our way. But, since Monday night, all has been smooth sailing.
We docked about 6 AM this morning and finally got clinic started about 10:30...we were waiting to start until another boat right next to us moved because there were about 100 people on it staring at us and would have jumped ship and joined us had we started clinic. We had a good day and saw lots of sick people. Expecting many tomorrow becaue word is now out that we are here.
We are eating very well, as always, Nancy Diaz takes great care of us. No one has gotten sick, so keep us in your prayers that all stay well.
Pat, Bo and Mike are doing fine. Bo helped run patients around today along with making medicine labels and Mike helped in the pharmacy. Megan, Bob is well and I will pass along your message. Reesie and Nay, Miss Lawana is making it great and helped in the dental area today. I think she is having a good time. The weather is hot...about 90-95 degrees with 120 percent humidity. Rather be here that with the single digit degrees back home! Don´t know if we will get to post tomorrow night, but will try. Thanks for the prayers and keep it up! Naomi

Monday January 10, 2011

2011-01-10T03:50:00.001-08:00

We were a little disappointed when our flight was delayed from Houston to Little Rock, but it turned out a blessing when we arrived in Lima and there were no other people in the airport...whizzed through immigration and customs, making it through with 50 bags of medicine and none being checked. Got to the hotel around 4 AM (hour ahead here-and got everyone checked in and off to their rooms only to find out they were going to turn off the electricity in 15 minutes and be off for 8 hours, which also turned off water.
We were expecting to have to pay a considerable amount for the extra weight in our bags from Lima to Iquitos, but our wonderful travel agent here talked the airline into letting us take on all our second bags free!! We need every penny we can get since we are now having to pay for 3 boats.
Speaking of the 3 boats, for any of you who havent' heard, the boat we were planning to get on went back under water one week ago, so David and Larry Johnson has been frantically trying to make Plan B for the past 5 days. This is not an easy thing to do since we've lost our money (there is a little hope we may eventually get our money back from the original boat) and there is not another boat big enough to hold all of us within 5 days river distance. They came up with a solution called the Good, the Bad and the Ugly. The Good is a boat that sleeps 18 that has rooms with individual baths and air conditioning...a good thing to have in tropical weather. Had to tweak the arrangements and put 31 on this boat to sleep, putting extra mattresses in each room and mattresses in the dining room. The Bad (my home for the next 2 weeks), is owned by a Frenchman that Larry says gives a new meaning to the word "negotiation." It is described (by David) as a "clean" boat that sleeps 12 (not 13, not 11, but 12...cooks for 12, not 13, not 11, but 12!) For those 12, there are 2 1/2 baths and no air conditioning. Then there is the Ugly, which is a huge cargo boat that I have dubbed 'the party barge.' There are about 10 or so sleeping on this boat in hammocks and mattresses David and Larry bought to put on the floor. No air and I'm not sure about bathroom situation here. The good thing about it is, it is big enough for us to hold clinic on, that that solved that.
We are having breakfast and will be loading the boats in a bit. Will be a few days before having internet again.
Nae

Friday morning

2010-06-11T03:54:00.000-07:00

From Jennifer--
Our last morning in Peru. Everyone is looking forward to our return to the US but are leaving behind new friends, rich experiences and the miracle which is "Villa
Milagro". All have enjoyed meeting Larry and his wife Joy and all of the Peruvian team.

Yesterday was packed with many patients in the town of Jesus. We walked through their market at lunchtime but no one wanted to take home any chickens, tire sandals or straw hats. We came home tired but all of the young folks still had enough energy to have a face-drawing art lesson from one of our artists, Sue Coon. After lots of harassment of the teacher, a few "students" had produced a portrait.

Thanks to everyone for praying for us while we have been gone and we will arrive back in LR on Continental flight 2996 at 11:52 AM, Saturday morning.

Dios le bendiga, God bless you.
Jennifer Blankenship

Thursday morning

2010-06-10T03:40:00.000-07:00

We have a very special prayer request this morning. One of the employees at Villa Milagro, Jaime Rivera, found out this week he has a tumor. He is going to the doctor today to get a biopsy to find out if it is malignant. Jaime (pronounced Hi-me) is a very important part of VM. He and his brother Orlondo have been drilling the water wells all the years since Larry started the water well drilling ministry. His brother Orlondo passed away one month ago and now, if Jaime is sick, the water well ministry is in jeorpardy. Over 300 wells have been drilled in the region because of this ministry and countless lives have been saved in many communities because of clean water being available. Please keep Jaime in your prayers.
Yesterday, we worked at a community about an hour away called Matara. We had a record setting day...540 patients! In all the years I've been coming to Peru, we've never seen that many people. We were so busy, but yet at the end of the day, everyone said they enjoyed the day. Our artists ran out of supplies and we ran out of some medicine in the pharmacy and gave out all the Bibles and toys, but we scrambled around and managed to provide what was necessary and we promised to send back Bibles for those who didn't get them. Janice has fell ill with an upset tummy, so we are going to let her rest today. We will be going up the road about 30 minutes to a place called Jesus. We haven't had a clinic there before and not sure what to expect, but we are repacking our supplies and going to throw in everything but the kitchen sink.
Again, we ask for your prayers for the Rivera family as they mourn for Orlondo and now are faced with Jaime's health problems and also for all the ministries associated with Villa Milagro.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

2010-06-08T18:47:00.002-07:00

From Sue:
Hi Daughter and friends,
Another workout today! Went to a women's shelter (att one time the home of a wealthy owner). We didn't have much room...a little porch about 10 ft. long and 6 ft. wide, two rickety tables eons old. Little old chairs and a bench that lost it's side before we left. We could only seat 10 children at a time, but we had shifts of them all day (from 8 till 6 pm). We took pictures of thte babies (so cute) and, in general, had another busy day ministering to these very poor people. They always have to close the gate for the line never ends.
Tomorrow--we get up early--leave at 7 am and are going up in the mountains! Wish you were here! Love, Mom/Sue

Tuesday morning

2010-06-08T04:23:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy, but rewarding day at clinic yesterday. We saw 340 patients, some with serious problems, most with common ailments such as headache, backache, and stomachache. Janett and Faye had the best job...giving out toys and goodies to every patient. They wanted to be able to say something in Spanish as they handed out their gifts, so they asked Faye's grandson Levi how to say Jesus loves you. He told them what to say and they practiced and practiced before clinic started. They were quite proud of themselves as they said "Christo te lame" to each person until Levi informed them they were saying 'Jesus licks you'--it should have been "Christo te ama" --I think they gave up and just filled a bag and handed it out without saying anything. I think the people got the message anyway. About to head to another placed here in town for another full day.
Naomi

Monday night from Rachel Lee

2010-06-07T17:29:00.000-07:00

Wonderful day today. I shadowed the Doctor all day and got a first-hand look at how a medical missions team works. Many of the people needed help, and they were very appreciative of the work that the medical team did for them. Lots of children to see and patients to treat, and though by the end of the day we were tired, it was a rewarding experience. 100% certain that I want to be a Pediatrican. LOVED all that we did today and I learned a lot, for example, how to do blood pressure. The team worked well together, sending LOTS of people from the waiting lines to the doctors to the lenses distribution and then down to the pharmacy. The children come to play by the 100s so Clayton and the other activities/children's corner people did a wonderful job keeping them busy and showing them Gods love through attention and care.
Excited about visiting the Women's Clinic/Shelter tomorrow. There are so many needs here, and you feel so good at night falling asleep and knowing that what you did that day helped someone, even if it was only one person.
This group has taken me under its wing and treated me like another member of the team. Glad to be here and priveleged to work with this wonderful group of people.
Rachel

Monday

2010-06-07T04:22:00.000-07:00

from Sue Coon--written on Sunday:
Dear Catherine and friends, Thanks for thinking of me. You must consider coming next time. You would be very good working with this crew.
It has been a "life changing" experience each day since I arrived...2 days. From buying food for 10 families in 3 hours --the market is another story....
Delivering them to the homes, after assorting the food for an hour...4 out of five homes our team delivered to were lacking of husbands.
Today (Sunday) we went to church (2 hours) and observed seven baptisms.
Then lunch (ample--three times a day), rest for a bit (30 min).
Ann Snyder and I packed up our art supplies and the whole group (22) went to the orphanage and was shown to a room with tables and chairs. When it was announced that drawing and painting would be conducted in that room, immediately a little girl grabbed my hand and the room was full of children (20) in a few minutes. For nearly and hour, they drew, colored, painted to their hearts content. Luckily, Martha interpreted, came in and saved us. They were all jabbering in Spanish! Fun was had by all--and in the universal language (with a little help). Then after 30 paintings were placed on the benches, they all ran out for hotdogs and marshmellows over an open fire, they had ice cream, soccer and lots of hugs.
This place is so needy and yet, the people seem to be happy with what ever little they possess! Love, Mom (Sue)

Monday morning June7th (I think)

2010-06-07T03:55:00.000-07:00

from Naomi:
I put in the title I think it's June 7th because when you are down here and out of routine, it's really hard to keep track of what day it is. I'm sorry we haven't been posting as much and I haven't been able to post any pictures, but the internet service here is very sporatic. Everyone is well. Yesterday we went to church at Monte Sion Baptist Church and experienced a great service...a little long...but great none the less. It was the church's 18th anniversary and they had visitors from several other churches. The church was packed. The regular church service was over at noon, but then they had a baptismal service baptising 7 people, including an 84 year old woman and her husband. After the baptism, we sang another song while waiting for the pastor to dry off and get dressed so he could come back and offer the Lord's supper. That consited of homemade unleaven bread and homemade grape juice (you can't buy grape juice here). So the service wasn't over until 1 o'clock which seemed even longer sitting on the wooden benches with a very straight backs. After lunch, we went to the orphanage and played with the kids until late afternoon and the weinie roast started. They got to roast marshmellows (I should say burned because they all liked to stick them right in the flame or directly on the coals) then it was all topped off with ice cream cones. They had a great time. We found 2 or 3 kids we are thinking about sticking in our bags and bringing home with us. On the way home, Celso (works here at Villa Milagro) saw a woman on the road who we had tried to deliver food to on Saturday, but she wasn't home. He stopped and told her if she would go home, we would bring the food over to where she lived, which was within walking distance of VM. We gathered the food and went across the field to her "home" which consisted of an area of about 9X9 foot, poles stuck in the ground and 2 or 3 pieces of plastic wrapped around the poles to make the walls, nothing over the top, but she did have an umbrella to cover herself and her little girl when it rains. She goes out and collects plastic bottles on the street during the day and brings them home to wash them and try to resell them for her living. As it turned out, the little girl was sick, so we got to do a little doctoring as well. Today we will be going to a school here in town called Mantoch. We'll be seeing people who will be coming from all over...I'm not sure how they get the word out, but we are ready to get to work.
Thanks for all your posts and prayers!
Les--will pass along your thanks to Aunt Martha, she said she had to 2 best escorts a woman could ask for Friday evening and Saturday!

Sat June 5, 2010

2010-06-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

Started out at 8:00 this a.m. Went to the market and bought food to distribute to needy families. We learned that God has truly blessed us in the US and that there are many needs around our world. Buying and negotiating the price of food in the market was really eye-opening - especially the meat market (many cow heads staring at us as well as pig snouts) Home-Town Market & Miller's seem real upscale now!!!
Our "left-behinders" just arrived, safe and sound. They seemed none the worse for wear - Martha was glad to arrive safely too.

Looking forward to anniversary celebration at church tomorrow. Three are being baptized. Everything is going well and the weather remains beautiful.

Keep us in your prayers - we miss you!

Stephanie, Kim & Melissa

Friday night June 4

2010-06-04T19:15:00.001-07:00

Everybody is here minus 3. We pray they get here as quick as possible! Other than that, everything has went pretty smooth. We touched down on the plane at our destination in cajamarca and the scenery as soon as you step off the plane is amazing! There are mountains all around. You really can not get the full effect until you see it for yourself! I was also worried about the food, and tonight we ate chicken and rice with ice cream for desert!! In the morning we get to eat some biscuits and gravy! So maybe it will not be too bad :) Everybody is worn out from the trip up here. We leave in the morning to buy food to distribute to some families in need. I know today was a hot one back in Arkansas, just know we are burning up down here in this 65 degree weather. I hope all is well! Keep us in your prayers!
From Clayton

Friday night June 4

2010-06-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

We made it to Cajamarca...well, most of us did. We were boarding the plane in Lima to fly to Cajamarca and they stopped on of the boys that was with us and told him they saw a soccer ball (with air in it) in his checked bag and they considered that pressured air and would not allow it to be loaded on the plane and they could not remove the ball, but he would have to go take the ball out himself and he would only have 15 minutes to do that before the plane was leaving. Of course, there was no way for him to get to where he needed to go and back in that 15 minutes...we left Martha Robertson with him to translate and his brother with some money so they could get a hotel room at the airport. We were hoping they would get the early morning flight and be here by 9 am, but right now they are saying it will be tomorrow afternoon before they get here. We feel really bad that we are not all here together! Please say a prayer tonight and early in the morning that they are able to get on the morning flight!

Friday morning-June 4, 2010

2010-06-04T06:21:00.000-07:00

We made it to Lima all safe and sound with all our luggage and supplies. This was the easiest trip through customs we have ever had. All the fraidy cats (Janett, Janice, Stephanie, Chasity) made the flight fine and now we can all believe it that Janett Miller has finally come to Peru! We are having breakfast at a hotel near the Indian Market in Lima and after a short shopping excursion to the market, we are headed back to the airport at noon for a 3pm flight to Cajamarca. Thanks for all the prayers!!

Sunday

2010-01-31T12:05:00.000-08:00

Went to church this morning and have had another delicious meal at Villa Milagro. Have said goodbyes and waiting to load the bus to go to the airport. Flights from Lima are scheduled to leave after midnight. Please keep us in your prayers that we all have safe flights this afternoon, tonight and in the morning. We've had a wonderful trip, but all looking forward to seeing our families tomorrow!

Aulanda McFarland (Melbourne Arkansas)

2010-01-30T17:56:00.000-08:00

Seven days, over 1600 patients and yet still lots of people who need our help, but yet with God's guidance we have been able to help so many through healing ,smiles, hugs and most of all sharing with them the love and the word of God.

No words can describe the awesome beauty of the country and the people who live here.
As always on each mission trip I have had the privilege to be able to go on....prayers have been answered.

Please continue to remember the people of Cajamarca and Villa Milagro in your prayers.

Aulanda

Pam Willett-- Sturkie Arkansas

2010-01-30T17:23:00.000-08:00

Another beautiful day. Today we saw the workers at Villa Milagro. They are such sweet, kind people with beautiful familes. It's bittersweet having to leave tomorrow.....I'm ready see my family, but the people hear need so much. They are all so grateful for everything you do for them, but no more grateful than I am for been given the opportunity to come here. I have truly been blessed. This was my first mission trip, but will not be the last! Pray for our safe return.

Love to all my family & friends. See you soon!

Pam

Saturday from Jan Louck (Arlington Texas)

2010-01-30T06:01:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful day! This team was truly arranged by God. I have had a wonderful young man--Julio--who has translated for me all week. He is a youth pastor and definitely fits the profile. He has taught me a lot about Peru and it's customs. I've had the privilege of teaching him about the human body and medicines. He has translated very faithfully, even when questions I asked were probably uncomfortable to him. During this week, Julio has led 6 people to Christ and has witnessed to many more. To date, the team has seen 1,207 people and provided 1,580 services. Many seeds have been planted and God will reap the harvest. We have laughed, cried, sung songs, and had wonderful fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ that God brought together from 4 different states. I thank God for the opportunity to serve Him in Peru with such wonderful, sweet, crazy Christians. Our life is anything but boring! Praise and honor to our Heavenly Father.

sick people update

2010-01-29T18:53:00.000-08:00

Dr. Upchurch is back and among the living...we called him Dr. Upchuck, but apparently it's not original as he says he's been teased and called that since he was little, but we thought it was totally appropriate in this instance. He's feeling much better and will be able to see patients in the morning. Thanks for the prayers. Doyne and Martha have left for home...flying out of Lima tonight and expect to land in Little Rock around noon tomorrow...do you suppose they will be able to land? Keep them in your prayers to have safe travel.

from Linda McIntosh (Arkansas)

2010-01-29T18:42:00.000-08:00

Today was an absolutely amazing day at a little church in the mountains. On the ride there we saw farmers plowing the fields with oxen and a wooden plow. It is a alfalfa harvest and everywhere we went we saw the donkeys loaded with the fresh cut alfalfa. When we arrived at the church we were lulled into a false sense of an expectation that we may not have very many patients. There were no patients lined up outside. Within an hour we had so many patients that 20 people had to wait till after lunch to be seen. By the return trip back from lunch, the people were lined up in both directions. We finished by seeing 424 patient contacts. Exhausted but blessed by the end of the day, we have provided approximately 1580 services to 1207 patients in 5 days. The hugs, kisses and appreciative smiles are worth it all. God has blessed us as much as the people we have treated. May God be Glorified in all that we do.

from Jennifer Blankenship (Mt. Olive Arkansas)

2010-01-29T17:22:00.000-08:00

The view from Cajamarca: tight waistbands and tall straw hats, busy fingers spinning wool on a string, tiny donkeys carrying burdensome loads of cut alfalfa, wash water running down dirt drains by the road, smelly livestock market all day Monday, tiny Peruvian infants wrapped over colorful shoulders, dusty plastic shoes made from old tires, tall mountain peeks dotted with terraced fields, and bumpy vans crammed with gringos. Tired gringos.

Jennifer

from Naomi

2010-01-28T19:15:00.000-08:00

We had a really good day except for our eye doctor, Dr. Upchurch. Please keep him in your prayers...he's had the stomach bug all day. We're hoping he's able to go back to clinic tomorrow.

from Casey and Charles (Arkansas)

2010-01-28T19:08:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. I just want you to know we are all doing well. This has been an eye opening experience to me and I am thankful that the Lord has blessed us with all He has. Casey is missing Leah and Josiah and can't wait to see them. Casey and I have seen and learned a lot. The people are really nice and very thankful for all that you do. The food has been wonderful along with the friends that we have made. It is amazing how so many people can come together as a team that had never met before and serve the Lord. Hope all is well at home.

from Linda McIntosh (Des Arc Arkansas)

2010-01-28T19:01:00.000-08:00

What a blessed day! We went to a home for single mothers and children and saw approx. 300 people. The children are absolutely beautiful! Their dark eyes and sweet appreciative smiles are worth all the hard work. It is heart breaking to see the poverty and know that the majority of their illnesses are due to parasites and that if they only had clean water this might be alleviated. A woman today told me that she needed to see the eye doctor because she couldn't see to read her Bible. It was such a blessing to see her smile wshen she received the glasses that allowed her to read again. As I prayed for each patient today, a woman prayed with me in Spanish and she continued to pray after I said Amen and I understood, even though I don't speak Spanish, that she was thanking God for the doctors and the workers who came to take care of them. It brought tears to my eyes to hear her prayer. It has truly been a blessing for me to watch what God is doing here.

Thursday--from Pat Jackson (Texas)

2010-01-28T18:57:00.000-08:00

Having a wonderful time here at Villa Milagro in Cajamarca Peru. We have seen a lot of Peruvian people with various needs. Our team of doctors, dentist, and optometrist, as well as other professionals in the medical field have been busily accommodating the needs of many men, women, and children here in Peru. It has been a blessing to see God work through this mission team. God is an awesome God!

Wednesday--Dr. Alan Upchurch (Texas)

2010-01-27T17:49:00.000-08:00

The natural beauty of God's creation in this place is astounding...exquisite flowers, lush greenery, and majestic mountains. The Peruvian people are simple, genteel, and loving. They are truly thankful for the things that really matter: our loving God, family, food, shelter, and health.

It has been a joy to watch God begin to reveal his purpose for sending each member of this team. I am certain that this mission will alter the course of life for some of out team members.

I can't thank you enough for your prayers for us...this ministry is a wonderful avenue to share Christ's love with the Peruvians and allow us the privilege of observing the the Holy Spirit in His work here.

God bless you and we will see you soon. Alan

last one

2010-01-26T19:09:00.000-08:00

Seven new posts (including this one) for today...may need to go to older posts to read all of them. Also, still working on putting on new pictures.

from Linda McIntosh (Des Arc Arkansas)

2010-01-26T19:00:00.000-08:00

What a blessing to be here! Lot's of hard work, but so rewarding. We have seen mostly children, but a lot of adults that look so much older than they really are. The children are malnourished, with parasites, stomachaches, headaches to the point of losing their hair. We have found a woman with a grapefruit sized tumor in her abdomen, a person with abdominal pain with melena that needs a colonoscopy, a child with a horrible heart murmur that cannot run and play with other children due to shortness of breath with clubbing fingers. I realize we are here putting bandaids on things that need surgery to repair, but I feel hopeful yet. I hope that we are bringing the hope of Christ to a suffering nation. I was praying for a mother and her older child with a 3 y/o in between; I was holding on to the mother's hand and the oldest daughter's when I felt the baby reach and grasp my hand to hold on too. It melted my heart. As the babies were crying today, I would begin to sing and they immediately calmed to the words of "Jesus Loves the Little Children." God has a language we all understand and it is LOVE. We share it with smiles, hugs, songs, and prayer. To God Be the Glory for all He is doing Here!

Sue Dowdy (Texas)

2010-01-26T18:56:00.000-08:00

Being a "1st timer" to Villa Milagro has been a true blessing. Our Lord brought together a wonderful group of servants that truly want to make a difference in the Peruvians lives--physically but more importantly, spiritually. I've never seen a group work so hard and "mix" so well to accomplish His purpose. I just want to thank all the faithful prayer warriors that daily lift us up...it is a true honor to serve Him in Peru with this wonderful group of believers.

from Duane Metcalf (Texas)

2010-01-26T18:52:00.001-08:00

What an awesome experience to be able to touch the lives of these people here in Cajamarca. I met some great people than care enough to join us in this very needed mission. Elbert and I have received so many blessings from so many children and adults. The children will melt your hearts and I can tell you they left an impression in my heart. We have been very busy every day and when we get back and have a time of fellowship, it is nice to hear so many stories from everybody. And, I'll also say I have never slept so well, too. I thank God for guiding me to come to this place.

from Murf (Texas)

2010-01-26T18:49:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful place...Villa Milagro...God has blessed me with opportunities to serve Him by giving Bibles, toys, love, and encouragement to the precious Peruvian people. Thank you for your prayers. I look forward to sharing with you soon, in person, the many wonders of God's work.

Tuesday night from dentist, T.J. Randers (Texas)

2010-01-26T18:37:00.000-08:00

God blessed us with another beautiful day today and another opportunity to serve the people here. Just as the day before, I was again impressed by the patience and appreciation expressed by those we have seen and cared for. I really hope the care I am providing is helpful and always pray for God to guide my hands. The children are so beautiful and innocent and pure and it is truly a privilege to have the opportunity to help those that might not otherwise have access to care. Unfortunately, I am living up to my Spanish name "El Dolor" (the pain)--but it is always wonderful after treatment when the children give me a big hug and it almost seems like they have forgiven me for what I have put them through. The team here is awesome and what a great thing for the people in this area to have access to top quality health care opportunities. Of course, we all feel like we are getting more out of this experience than the good we are doing, but I guess blessings can go both ways. My prayer for tomorrow is that I can provide the best care possible dental-wise, and that through this the people can also find a source of comfort through the gospel they arer being exposed to. I am thankful to be here, although I miss my family more than words can express and look forward to sharing love to my neighbor--my Peruvian neighbor--as the Bible tells me to do.

Tuesday night

2010-01-26T18:10:00.000-08:00

Sorry about not writing sooner, but now also having problems with internet connection. Have finally found a computer that works...maybe I won't jinx this one...and yes, new computers would definitely be nice! I'll start with report from Monday. Monday started a little precarious when on the way to Monte Sion Baptist Church (where we were holding the clinic for the day) David was stopped at a road block about 3 blocks from the church. He didn't have his wallet, but he and Celso, the Peruvian who was driving the vehicle behind us, explained to the young police woman that David would go back and get his driver's license later, they let us on through. David later returned to Villa Milagro (where we stay) and retreived his wallet, but the road block was no longer in process when he came back through. Later in the middle of clinic, 4 young police women came looking for the runaway bandit. David showed them his Arkansas fishing license as Uncle Doyne had taught him to do, and they were pleased. We ended up treating the officers to some dental services, Susan even brushed their teeth. (hope to post photos.) Now we have new friends who may come in handy to know at the next road block.

On a more serious note, we saw lots of patients and everyone was busy. I would like to say a special thanks to Dr. Allen Upchurch, an eye doctor from Texas. I've never had an eye doctor with us on a mission trip, but he was truly sent by God for this trip. He's been on several mission trips and says he usually will see about 5 patients in a whole trip with glaucoma, but he saw 5 just in the morning yesterday. One was a 30 year old nurse who rode the bus for 4 hours to see us after she heard we were going to be in town. She was having problems with her eyes being blurry. Dr. Upchurch diagnosed her with a rapidly progressive type of glaucoma and she will be blind soon if she doesn't receive laser surgery. She has eye drops to control the problem for now, but keep her in your prayers that she will be able to get the surgery she needs. We have seen many other interesting and sad things, but have messages from others for now.

one more thing

2010-01-25T03:55:00.000-08:00

Also, I need technical help...OK, I need other help too, but right now I need computer help. We have an older laptop here that I'm writing on now, but it does not have an sd card slot that I can download my pictures from. I have a laptop that I brought with me that does and I wanted to post some pictures on the blog site. We have wireless access here and my laptop says it is connected to the wireless network, but when I try to bring up a web page, it will not go to the page. Can anyone help me, please!

Monday morning

2010-01-25T03:42:00.000-08:00

Oops, I was so tired last night I didn't realize I had commented on my own post instead of creating a new post. Have had a good night's sleep and one cup of coffee, so will try to do better today...although there's not enough time to write now...the breakfast bell is ringing. We are going to Monte Sion Baptist Church to work today, which is about a mile or two down the road, so no long drive this morning. Everyone is anxious and ready to get to work and we have plenty of supplies to do the job...I think. Will catch up later. Naomi

2010-01-24T05:13:00.000-08:00

We made it to Lima safe and sound with all our luggage and so far, all our team...have got one wonderer so we~re threatening to tie a lease on already. All our flights made it one time...small miracle with people coming from North Carolina, Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas...Dallas and Houston, and we all made it within about an hour of each other. Will be going back to the airport about 11 to flight to Cajamarca around 3.

Wednesday - VBS and painting

2009-07-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

Hello all - I hope everyone back in Booneville is doing well. Jacob and I finished up some painting and varishing today while the others conducted two VBSs at the same location as yesterday. Can't believe that tomorrow we begin the long trek back to the states - but we really miss all of you and are ready to see each of you (just not ready for the 150 degree heat - the weather here is wonderful!). Continue to keep each of us in your prayers as well as the mission here - there are so many good folks here and so many without Jesus. See you soon!

VBS

2009-07-07T16:13:00.000-07:00

Hello-
We had another great day! However, we really need you mom. No one "wings it" quite like you. We really miss everyone. Don't worry Lori we have lots of pictures of Makayla and your mom. Ms. Roni is doing great. She really loves the kids.
Ma,
We miss you and love you. Take care of the new gossling. Tell Allie, Nate, Aunt Pam and Kimberly, and Unle Sam and Brent that we miss them and love them too.
Love,
Erin and Kelsey

Tuesday VBS & Painting

2009-07-07T13:58:00.000-07:00

This morning Richard (natalie's dad) and I finished the painting at the school that we had started on Saturday - they now have a newly painted gate! Both morning and evening we conducted VBS at another location (I don't know how to spell it nor pronounce it!) and we will conclude our stay with the same schedule tomorrow, before flying to Lima on Thursday in order to fly back to the states Thursday night. Please keep us in your prayers! Sonia texted me about Mrs. Mary Crabb's heart cath tomorrow and about Ty's hands - we are praying for both. Until next time.....

Jody

Tuesday Morning

2009-07-07T05:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a good day shopping again and distributing food. I think we're getting much more comfortable shopping in the market here, as we negotiated prices more than we have in the past. We had enough money left over to buy candy, soap, cheese, and Inca Cola for the kids in the families. Today we are headed to La Something-that-starts-with-an-H to do Bible School for the next two days. Last night we had the Mariachi band do a few songs for Kelsey's birthday and Roni's upcoming wedding. Kelsey of course had a big time of it, and Roni outdanced Makayla!

Even though at times I'm unsure whether we're doing anything of substance here, the Sunday School lesson we had this past Sunday from Isaiah reminded me that God's word will not return to him void. We have done Bible Schools and handed out numerous Bibles and tracts, so God will do with that what he wants. Pray for us as we do 8 hours of Bible school both today and tomorrow.

Neela, Erin and Kelsey say hi and they love you.

Chris

market day

2009-07-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

Hey people at home today I had a real experience at the market. I was handing out tracks. We bought our food. Mom, Kerri, Kelsey and I were walking around the market when an old lady came up to us she had been given a track and wanted to know more about Jesus. We think .The only problem was she only spoke Spanish. We prayed to God that she might come to know him. That was all we could do.

Katie Kramer

Second Food Distribution

2009-07-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

Hello folks - just got back from delivering food to eight different families this afternoon. Had a wonderful experience riding through the streets of Cajamarca in the back of a pickup truck! These folks were so appreciative - seeing the situation of some of these folks really makes you count your blessings. We Americans are truly blessed (and spoiled). I'll report back tomorrow!

Jody Presley

Back to the market...

2009-07-06T06:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon we had a wonderful time at the orphanage - the children were precious. Needless to say, when we left they were all full of hotdogs, marshmellows, and ice cream. Please remember to pray for those children. Today it is back to the market to buy food to distribute this afternoon. One more thing.....help me wish my wife happy anniversary (18 years and counting)!!!! I love you Sonia - will be home soon.

Jody Presley

Orphanage

2009-07-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight, at the orphanage, I found a half eaten hotdog on the ground, so I picked it up and tossed it into the fire. There was a little boy standing next to me, and he looked at me like I was crazy! I then witnessed the little boy dig the hotdog out of the fire and eat it. It truly made me ashamed. I’m so thankful for all that I have. Americans are truly blessed with an abundance of most things. This experience of delivering food has really helped me to understand how important our Angel Food Ministry is to our community.

April

Sunday

2009-07-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

Hello to all the folks back at Calvary! We had a wonderful morning service - Bro. Matt did a wonderful job preaching the message - yes, he actually kept his sermon to nine minutes! One person was saved through the sharing of the gospel and each of you had a part in that. This afternoon we are heading to an orphanage to have fun with the kids and have a hotdog/marshmellow roast with them later on - should be fun. Have a great Sunday. Until next time...

Jody

Sunday Afternoon

2009-07-05T11:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had an excellent day distributing food to about 12 families. The two that remain the most vivid in my mind was the woman who had five little girls and was abandoned by the husband. She worked five hours a day milking cows and made $10 a month. Then we came across a man who had lost his wife 2 months ago and was left with three boys. His house was about the half the size of the youth room at church, and I had to squat down the whole time so I wouldn't hit my head on the ceiling. The poverty here is truly beyond words. This morning we had an excellent Sunday School lesson from Isaiah 55, translated by Carlos, followed by a sermon from Matt on Mark Chapter 8, also translated by Carlos! Tabatha, Makayla, and I took a mototaxi (motorcycle taxi)back to Villa Milagro from church. It was amazing! In about 30 minutes we are heading to the orphanage to play with the kids and roast hot dogs. Everything is going incredibly well. Brad, Tabatha has taken over 500 pictures so far, so I'll work on the Lorch family powerpoint when we get home. I am trying to post more pictures, but it takes so long on this internet connection to upload them from the camera. Hopefully I'll be able to work on it tonight.

Chris

2009-07-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

Ma,
We miss you so much!!!! Thanks for taking care of all the animals. We love you!!!
Hi Allie, Nate, Aunt Pam, and Uncle Brent. We love you!!! Tell Bruno hi.
Love,
Erin and Kelsey

2009-07-04T15:35:00.000-07:00

Neela,
It is a wonderful 59 degrees today at 5:30pm. We had a good day distributing food and bibles at La Huaraclla. The people were appreciative and we were blessed in seeing some people accept Christ as their Lord and Saviour. I miss you and wish you were here but I am sure that you are enjoying yourself with Allie, Nate, and Titus. I look forward to seeing you Friday.
Richard

Food Distribution

2009-07-04T15:29:00.000-07:00

Hello to all the folks back in Booneville, MS! Happy Fourth of July! We distributed food to needy families this afternoon - what a blessing to meet these people who are so appreciative for anything you give them. What was super to see was that at least three people were saved through this ministry! We left New Testaments, so please pray that others might come to know Jesus! Until tomorrow.....

Jody Presley

July 4th, 2009

2009-07-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

Happy july fourth. everybody is doing great here and in working fairly hard. we went to market this morning and bought food for several poor families, real fun. This afternoon we are going to deliver up the mountian.

It has been so nice you almost want to call it a mission vacation.

See everyone next week,

Matt Wilburn

2009-07-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hi-Mom, Pam, Brent, Allie, and Nathanael. Happy fourth of July!! Everything here is going well. We miss you all very much. Thanks for taking care of everything!
Tab
Hi Allie, Nate, Ma, Aunt Pam, and Uncle Brent. We miss you and love you.
Erin and Kelsey

market adventure

2009-07-04T10:27:00.000-07:00

I tried really hard, but I was not able to sell Katie or Kerri at the market!ha ha!
We are all having a great time. This afternoon we are going to deliver the food we purchased and share the "Good News" in the homes of some really needy people!

April

To the market we go...

2009-07-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

Our entire mission team was divided into four teams this morning and given specific instructions to purchase food for needy families. Each team received the necessary money and lists of items to buy. What an experience! No Kroger or any store back home could match this experience. We will deliver to the needy families this afternoon - I'll report on this later....

Saturday from Chris

2009-07-04T05:20:00.000-07:00

IT'S COLD!! Thank goodness for the fireplace. I'm not sure what the exact temperature is, but it feels like it's below 40 degrees in the mornings. Today we are going to the market to buy food and then distribute it this afternoon. We are all very excited. Tab and I will try to sit down and put some pictures on the blog this evening. I think she got one of me actually working!

Hello all!

2009-07-03T09:25:00.000-07:00

After a long, long flight to Lima on Wednesday, and a short flight to Cajamarca, we have arrived at our desination. The hosts are so gracious and the accomodations are excellent as is the food! We have already conducted one VBS yesterday afternoon at a local school and will go back today to do another one. Most of the men varnished the doors of the school while VBS was going on and we will paint some other items today. Please pray for our ministry and for the people here - they are so kind and loving - but they need Jesus! Tomorrow we get to go and buy food to distribute to needy folks - we are looking forward to that opportunity! Will write back soon - hello to the folks back at Calvary Baptist Church.

Jody Presley

Friday in Cajamarca

2009-07-03T09:16:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I finally figured out how to blog. We arrived safely yesterday with no problems whatsoever. They put us straight to work yesterday afternoon with a VBS at Monte Sion. Others worked on sanding and varnishing some doors at the school. For those of you who have been here before, they built a new Sala that is twice the size of the old one with a new kitchen and fireplace. We had steak and potatoes for supper last night. Yes, we are roughing it. Right now we are getting ready for another afternoon of VBS, then tomorrow we are doing food distribution. Things are going well, and I hope to post some pictures soon.

Chris

Lima--Friday night

2009-06-05T21:35:00.000-07:00

Made it to Lima and all through security, etc...waiting to board plane which looks like may be a little bit late, but too bad, maybe.

Friday, on the way home...I think....

2009-06-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

We are at the airport in Cajamarca waiting for the plane...it's just landed so we should be loading soon and on our way to Lima and in plenty of time for the flight home tonight. All things are go as far as we know.

Thursday

2009-06-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

Kim : This week here in Peru has changed my life. The people have been so kind and gracious. My heart has been touched and will never be the same. They have done more for me than I could ever hope to do for them. I have been humbled and at times ashamed because truthfully I have nothing to complain about. I am so thankful for this experience and all it has brought to my life. I am confident the people of Peru will see me again.
Glenna-We had clinic again at the University Nacional de Cajamarca. As compared to yesterday, there weren’t as many crisis cases. At least 2 we saw yesterday may not have lived to see today – a 1 yr. old and an 80 yr. old. We do what we can with what we have and these people are grateful just that we have tried to help. It makes me thankful to be an American and thankful for all that we are privileged to have.

Carla today we had our fifth clinic of the week ( I think!) and saw a different (gente) or group of people than in the smaller city ( further )up in the mountains-- interesting- I have yet to see a smoker- on the streets
The work is difficult in the mind set that one has to remember that these people seek medical care very rarely- and one needs to make benefit with even short term meds and life style changes. It was refreshing when a nursing student at the university asked me what she could do for her malady other than medications-- I told her that was a very intelligent question.

NaeNae--We've had a wonderful trip...no serious illnesses for our travelers and I think everyone has been blessed by the experience. We've worked hard and have seen over 1,500 people including medical, dental, and eyeglasses. We handed out all the New Testaments we had and people were asking for more. The reading glasses were a big hit today and over 600 pairs were given out the past 2 days. Had had a great time but ready to come home and see my babies...tell Allie, Penny and Annie I'm missing them too and will see you soon!

Wed. June 3, 2009

2009-06-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

Laura—The mission trip has been quite an experience! We have only have 2 more days left, but in the past few I have seen so many amazing things. The people in Peru are so grateful for the littlest things…things we take for granted. There are faces I’ll never forget…and sites that are indescribable. All together it’s been an amazing experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Douglas-hi mom love u &miss u having a good time

Rick – It’s a privilege to minister in Peru in Jesus name! The people of Cajamarca, Chancay, and Yanacancha, have been very gracious. I believe the Spirit of God is using this trip to bring a lot of people closer to Christ.

Landon – Words can’t describe all that has happened this week. From aiding in clinics to playing with the children, every moment has been amazing. Tomorrow the youth will split up and go to the markets to buy food and later deliver it to needy families. In the states we hear the prayer, “Give us this day our daily bread…,” however for us it isn’t an earnest prayer. Here in Peru, The Lord’s Prayer is reality. The things I have seen this week have truly touched my life, and I am now more aware of the problems we have in this world. Today we traveled to a village called Yanacancha, a beautiful area high in the mountains; sadly it was one of the poorest places I’ve yet to see. It was a very isolated village; however, seven or more Baptist establishments in the area, and the people thanked God for our visit. I don’t know how I will ever explain all this to my church, there is so much. I am very grateful for this experience and hope those at home will see what an impact Miracle Village International has made in the lives of the Peruvians. I think my blog is a little long. Hopefully Bro. Jackson gives me a Sunday to tell all of this haha..

Darla—today we traveled to a village high in the mountains-we visited a school that had 130 children
They were precious. There are 7 Baptist churches in this area . Fifteen years ago no person had a bible or knew of Jesus. This mission has been blessed and we have blessed to be involved.

Tuesday

2009-06-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

We are back from Chancay after a grand farewell party, including delicious Inca Cola and gifts of local pottery for everyone, plus some fun entertainment by the local youth joined by a few brave gringos. Everyone is glad to be back "home" at Villa Milagro where showers and clean water are plentiful. All are well and expecting a full day tomorrow with the youth and some adults heading to Yanacancha over the Continental Divide and the medical team working at the local university by special invitation.

Monday in Chancay from Shelby & Nae

2009-06-01T19:27:00.000-07:00

We were greeted in Chancay with many warm welcomes yesterday. We were awakened not by rooster but by David Miller's mouth along with that of Brad Wheelis and Doyne Robertson retelling stories of long ago....when David was a child...we would have fussed but the stories remain funny. The youth started off going to a local school, while the others worked in the clinic. Over 350 patients were seen. It was a very productive day and we have had a lot of help from the local Peruvians. We have clinic again tomorrow and we will arrive back to Villa Milagro tomorrow afternoon. We are staying in a very nice, private home, however, 46 people fill it up quickly. Expecting a very busy day tomorrow so we must get in bed!

Sunday-from Kim

2009-05-31T11:29:00.000-07:00

very tiring but oh so rewarding!

2009-05-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday- Charles Treat - What a day... This has truly been an awesome experience. I have the privledge of working with some of the finest youth I've ever encountered(even the ones who came to Peru with me-just kidding); they have worked hard and served the Lord diligently. We spent the morning at the Aldea, an orphanage in Cajamarca, coloring, playing ball, and spending time with the children. Despite their circumstances, the children were remarkably happy and were as much of a blessing to us as we could have been to them. The rest of the day was spent with the medical team. New challenges awaited us as we found areas to contribute throughout the clinic. many of the youth began by entertaining the children of those who came for treatment, but some took on various hands-on roles: helping the dentists, fitting and distributing glasses, and working in the pharmacy. I'm not an overly emotional; however, I shed a few tears today as i observed the needs of the people being met by a young generation that many in this world have lost faith in. Praise the Lord for all he has done!

Saturday from Shelby, Laura, and Haley

2009-05-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

Today was a new experience for me. The youth went to an orphanage and played with the children that touched our hearts deeply. It really puts matters into perspective when a little girl or boy is excited to receive a crayon and coloring page. After the orphanage we grabbed lunch...the food here is the BEST! We then ventured to the clinic to help with the children while their families saw the doctor,dentist,and pharmacist. All 400 patients were seen today and received the proper medical care that they needed. Today was just the first day of clinic and activities so we are all very excited to see what God has in store for the rest of the week!

Friday night

2009-05-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

We all made it to Cajamarca about 3:30 this afternoon, including Jack and Martha. They had been at the airport since 8 am this morning waiting for our 2 pm flight. They didn't connect with our pick up person last night at the airport and ended up walking across from the airport and staying at the hotel connected to the airport. We're all a little tired, but well and looking forward to a good night's sleep. We've been working in the pharmacy trying to get ready for clinic tomorrow in a village about 30 minutes away.

Friday

2009-05-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to say we were late getting to Lima, but we made it safe and sound with all our bags, even though some of the bags and all of the travelers looked a bit haggard. Our flight was delayed AFTER we boarded the plane for over an hour and then when we arrived in Lima, a couple from California who we were suppose to meet, were not at the meetin' place. After searching the airport, we finally gave up and arrived at the hotel at 2:30 this morning. Even with little sleep, most are looking a bit more bright eyed and bushy-tailed and ready to head to the airport for 2 pm flight to Cajamarca. We are just hoping the couple from California (Martha and Jack) are also bright-eyed and bushy-tail and waiting on us at the airport! More Later.

2009-05-27T17:17:00.000-07:00

http://photobucket.com/miraclevillage

Last Night in Peru

2008-06-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! We went to the market one last time this morning to buy food for some people in need here in the Cajamarca area. To our surprise, Tab and I know more Spanish than we realized; we had no trouble buying the food ourselves with no help. We saw some serious poverty this afternoon when we delivered the food, so I can confidently say we helped those in need. While we are all ready to get home, I don't think any of us are looking forward to the trip. It was a long trip down here, and I'm sure it will be the same going back. We will leave Villa Millagro for the airport at 6:15 am, so you know Kels will be loving that. We will spend most of the day in Lima tomorrow, and our flight for Houston will leave around midnight. Sounds like fun! It has been an amazing trip, and we have appreciated all of your support and prayers.

Connie and Juanice -- We have A LOT of pictures to show you when we get back -- about 2 CDs worth!!

Mom -- Hope you are making it without Dad; I'll call you when we get to Houston.

Hunter and Brad's Cooleist Blog Ever

2008-06-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

Kim,

Hey, sorry I didn't get
to talk to you last night but our calling card is out of minutes and there are no more cards. Please tell dad I would have called him and wish him happy Father's Day for me please. Last night we went to the orphange and had a hotdog roast and served them ice cream and when we started to leave a little girl about nine named Leslie asked if I would be back and when I told her no her eyes began to fill up with tears. It broke my heart!!! I miss you guys so much and are looking forward to wednesday. It has been a good trip and God has been with us every step of the way. I will try to call you tomorrow when we get to Lima.

Love you all,
Brad

Hunter's Awesome Blog

To Mom,

Today we got food for Three familes and last night we Had a weenie rost. Me and dad were serving drinks at about 100 mlh. The night before we ate Que. It was good. Tell Haleigh ; I vwill be back.

Sunday Morning From Tab

2008-06-15T07:19:00.000-07:00

We are about to leave for Sunday School at Monte Sion. We went to the orphanage yesterday. This was a very humbling experience. The children there have nothing, but they are so gracious. There are so many needs at the orphanage. Please keep them in your prayers. This trip has truly been a life changing event. I hope that church at Fellowship goes well.

Connie- Thanks for taking care of the package.
Juanice-I hope that Josie's arm is feeling better. You were right; you can not express this trip with words.

Hi Sam , Kimberly, Natalie, Matt, Pam, and Brent. We miss you and love you.
Hi Allie and Nathanael. Aunt Tabby is ready to see you. I have a present for both of you. I miss you and love you both!!!!!!!

Walking to Sunday School

2008-06-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

There are several of us that going to walk to Sunday school this morning. It will take us about 30 minutes to get to the church. Bro. Nuckolls was invited to preach this morning. I think he will have an interpreter. All of us are especially thinking of you and missing our church family this morning. Our Sunday school class will be in the Spanish language. I can't wait to here today's lesson! I wonder if we will be able to know which story they are telling.

Love in Christ,

April

Matara VBS and Orphanage

2008-06-14T19:50:00.001-07:00

Chris' Saturday Night Blog

2008-06-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

Looks like I'll be the first to tell you all about the orphanage today. First of all me, John, and Charles replaced some of the benches that were in sorry shape. Then the rest of the team joined us in the afternoon to play with the kids. It was incredibly sad. I've been to this orphanage before, but it still got to me the second time around. I'm sure everyone has a unique story to tell, so I'll just go with mine. There was one little boy there who was totally blind in one eye, and wasn't doing so hot with the other one either. However, this was the most determined kid in the whole place. We gave him some string and some beads, and he would hold it right up to his good eye and string it himself. He wanted no help from anyone. There was another girl who was partially paralyzed who was hobbling around the place with the biggest smile on her face because she was actually getting attention from all kinds of people. I had to carry her (literally) up the slide and she just laughed. The sad fact is that most of these kids will never get adopted. We ate supper with them and they laughed at our Spanish, if you could call it that. I told Tab I wish I could eat Saturday dinner with these kids every week. It is so overwhelming because it seems like they need more than we could ever give them. I wish all of you could come here to experience this just once. Believe me, it puts your entire life in perspective. I could ramble on about this for much longer, but I'll let the others tell their stories. Hope you all have good services tomorrow at church.

Neela's Blog

2008-06-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

We have added a slideshow of some of the pictures of the food distribution. I really enjoy this part of the mission trip because you get to go into people's homes. Everyone seemed so thankful for the food.

I hope everyone is doing fine. We miss everyone but it is really a blessing to be here.

Allie and Nate we will see you soon.
Love Ma and Granddad

Hello Sam and Kimberly, Natalie and Matt, Pam and Brent,
We miss you all.

Pam give Rascal a hug for me!

Food Distribution Slideshow

2008-06-14T12:02:00.001-07:00

Charles and Robin

2008-06-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

Since no one but Connie has written, I assume they can't figure it all out. Anyway, the trip has been great and we're so busy each day that it has flown by! There is so much to tell and it's impossible to describe the experience that you will just have to wait 'til we get back. I just know we will be more thankful when we get home and appreciative of what God has blessed us with. The needs here are infinite and no matter how much you do, there is so much more after that. I am thankful for everything we've been able to do here- it has been a blessing. Take care of Rosie and the store and we'll see you soon. Give Victoria a hug and a kiss! We miss all of you!
Charles

Erin, Kelsey and Kerri's blog

2008-06-14T09:34:00.000-07:00

To all my family especially Allie and Nate

Today we painted the wall at the school. I have paint all over me. I think my shoes will be white when we get finished. We are going to the orphanage later today. I miss you Allie and Nate. We will see you soon. hello everyone at church. I am having a great time.

Hi Grandma and grandpa
Erin

Hello everyone,
I miss you. I am having a great time. My favorite thing to do has been visiting the school. They have really good pizza here. It has been hard for me to understand the children but I am trying. Yesterday we played ball with some children while we were delivering food.

Hi Grandma and grandpa. We miss you
adios,

Kelsey

To my family,
Hi dad, I miss you! We painted today. I am working very hard. My shoes got really white today, if they were any whiter they would be snowshoes. Hi Kendele, Hi, Katie I am having a great time. See you soon.

Kerri

A new blog for kim. LOL> : )

2008-06-13T18:49:00.000-07:00

okay so.. we aparantly have been named the mission team with the most internet usage that has come up here lol. today we got up, ate a huge awesome breakfast and headed back up into the mountains at over 10,000 ft. above sea level. Once in Matara we picked up our food we purchased yesturday and began delivering it to the different families. To our surprise (me, mr.lorch,ms.lorch, and erin) we had to walk almost a mile up one mountain, passed a cemetary and almost fell off what seemed to be the side of the earth trying to make it to one of the houses. Needless to say we're in horrible shape. It's almost incomprehendable that all those people walk from there to Matara to the market and to school almost everyday (many with kids strapped to their back). At one house there was a 95 year old women stuck on the ground where she was trying to pick fire wood off a tree and could not get up. We helped her into her house and gathered more firewood for her. She was about 4 ft. tall and had no shoes. Later we delivered to a man and woman a food sack and they were so grateful they gave us two baggies of these cookie type looking things although they probably had nothing else but what we had just given them. That was pretty awesome. At VBS me and ms.lorch and ashley were still head of the arts and crafts and we made necklaces today. It's entirely way too hilarious to see us try and communicate with these kids and they just laugh and laugh at our "gringo" talk. There was also a boy probable about 6 or 7 that was in what was made to be a wheel chair. It seemed as if he had cerebral paulsey but im not sure. It made me thankful that Jordan has the things he needs to be healthy and happy. Well the day ended with the always amazing food and dessert. Tomorrow will be our first day at the orphanage and we're serving them a massive chicken dinner. There's two premature babies that only weigh 3 pounds. But it should be quite the experience and we're all pretty stoked! See you guys wednesday! asta louago!

-makayla♥

Hunter and Brad Better Than Ever

2008-06-13T18:04:00.000-07:00

Kim:
It has been a long day starting with about 4:30 this morning for me. It is such a blessing to deliver these food bags and see the total appreciation and love for the Lord each one has had. The Peruvian girls where asking about Hunter today and I had to stop them in their tracks and tell them that we were on a mission trip for the Lord and not for Hunter a girlfriend. I miss you and Haleigh so much and wish you guys where here. Give Haleigh a big kiss for me and tell her I love her. Continue to pray for us.
Love You Always,
Brad

Hunter's Awesome Blog

To Mom,
It was fun today. We handed out food baskets to families and did Vacation Bible School. I think today we had over 70 kids come today. Keep praying for us and all these people who are struggling in Peru.
From Hunter

To Issac,
So far we haven't eatin any Genie Pigs or Rabbit but I rabbit's good. I think were eating Genie Pigs and Rabbit tomorrow, I'll tell you how it is.
I'm awesome Hunter

Friday May 30--Cajamarca

2008-06-13T04:43:00.000-07:00

We are going back to Matara today. We will be distributing food and handing out bibles in the morning. In the afternoon we will be having another V.B.S. under the direction of Neela (ha, ha). The Lord has really blessed us while we have been here. I pray that eveything is going well at Fellowship. Remember to be at church Sunday.

Bro. Richard

♥ ♥ ♥To Kim, Ms.Connie, and Mom

2008-06-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

♥hey kim!♥
i miss you and haleigh belle so much.
i loved your comment on my blog.
it made me all happy inside.
Being the youngest in a family makes
it pretty awesome to be looked up to by
someone younger.
*as always tell the migrants i miss them
(especially valmelec *my fav*)
love you!

♥ms.connie♥
yes it is very sad to see all the animals
i really just want to put them all on a plane
and bring them back home where not only will
they be fed but also get to wear the funny clothes
that we put on our dogs. thanks for writing!

♥mom♥
it's fun down here and the food is awesome.
tomorrow we will distribute food to the families
that we bought at the market today. Tonite we had
a marshmallow roast with a mariachi band that
sung to ms.robin cuz it's her b-day. tell brady not
to stop worrying and to not be too sad. l8r.

Thanks everyone for writing! I enjoy reading them everyday! I miss and love you all..
-makayla♥

Chris' Blog for Thursday

2008-06-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! We had a great time today at the market. We are such idiots in Spanish. We had a great time laughing at ourselves, but we were able to get a lot of food. Thankfully, Elmer, the pastor at Monte Sion, helped out our group. One thing he said that really stuck with me is that even though we don't speak the same language, with Christ, everything just seems to work out. Unfortunately, I think I might lose Tab on this trip. While shopping today, some man gave her his phone number. She even took her picture with one of them! I hope I'm not going to be replaced. We had Bible School this afternoon, and as usual, me, Brad, and John were the heads of recreation and had no clue what we were doing. Tomorrow we will be distributing all the food we bought today, so I will have a lot to say tomorrow night. The girls are doing great; I'm so proud of all of them. Makayla is going to start up a Humane Society for all of the animals down here. She feels sorry for the donkeys having to carry everything. We had a long day today, so we're going to get some rest and get ready to do it all over again tomorrow. Oh and good news -- they had pizza tonight so Kels finally ate a big meal!

Connie -- The bassett hound's name is Frazier and the cocker is Diffey.
Juanice -- We're missing you a bunch down here. The food is still amazing!

From Makayla♥

2008-06-12T15:40:00.000-07:00

Um... Okay, so we went to Marata (pronounced matata) today and bought food for the locals. It took an hour to drive there and we approached a much higher altitude. As we split into teams to go from store to store, we handed out bibles, candy, and bracelets that said Jesus te ama (jesus loves you). It was overwhelming at the responses we got. Huge crowds of people were lining up to recieve the gifts. My group (Mr.Lorch, Ms.Lorch, & Erin L.) were followed by numerous people from place to place in hopes of getting the Bibles. The candy was way accepted as well and i believe that's what we ran out of the fastest. All the animals here (cows, dogs, sheep, chickens, cats, etc.) are way different than the ones we have at home. They look as if they haven't eaten in about 10 years and none of them seem as if they have any life at all in them. You can go up to any of them and just pet them and they will act as if they don't exist. The donkeys ecspecially carry heavy loads of things like metal and corn and probably only weigh about 30-40 pounds. Its crazy. The VBS took over really well. There were not only kids there but many women as well. It was pretty overwhelming to teach them how to make a pipe cleaner and paper flower when we didn't even really know how to say the word flower in spanish. It was pretty funny actually. The food here is awesome. It's very different from american food even though they call it the same stuff. But anyways...God has blessed us with a great and safe trip so we're all pretty happy and excited to see what each day brings.
-Makayla♥

Thursday Morning

2008-06-12T04:44:00.000-07:00

We are leaving for Matara this morning. We will go to the market to buy food for the families that we are going to give food. We will also do a Vacation Bible School at a church in Matrara. We are all looking forward to the work we will be doing today. Please pray that God will use us to plant a seed today so that someone may come to know the Lord. We were told yesterday that Monte Sion baptized 5 people as a result of last years VBS. We know that God is working here. Keep us in your prayers!

Hunter's post thats awesomer than anyone elses

2008-06-11T17:34:00.000-07:00

To Mom,
Like you said the food is awesome.It has been fun here until it's time to go to bed. Today (Wednesday) we went to the school and painted the playground's swings and teetertoters. Tell Haleigh what Arnold Swarsaniger once said: I will be back.
From Hunter

Kim,
I am so glad you are taking care of all the things that are going on back at home. I apologize for the craziness. We are having a great time. We were informed this morning that the Lord saved five people and that He used the bible school from last year to share His message. This has been a great opprotunity for me and Hunter and I know this is hard on you but I believe the Lord is preparing Hunter for great things to come.

We love and miss you,
Brad

April's Post

2008-06-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings family and church family! Kerri and I are having a great time, but we wish the rest of our family was here to share this experience. Katie I'm sorry I didn't get to be home with you on your 11th birthday, but I promise I will be a better mother to you as a result of being here in Peru! Today we went to a Baptist school where we got to love on some precious children. They appreciate all that Fellowship Baptist has done for them. It is amazing to find out that there is a school that is able to stay open because of what God has been able to do through our congregation.

From Makayla To Kim & Nanny

2008-06-11T17:17:00.001-07:00

Hey Yo!
Kim-im so glad you "blogged"! it's pretty amazing up here.
i just realized today however that we're gonna miss sunday dinner : ( <<<<(thats im for a sad face lol!) tell the lil migrants i miss them much and i'll know mucho mas en espanol when i come back. I ♥ you and miss you mucho!
Nanny-im goin to try to call you tonite but don't know if ill be successful in reaching you...(*i guess it depends on if ole maxie is there ; ). you have to come next year because it has been an amazing trip. there's are millions of mountains everywhere you look and the people are really nice. the food is awesome but doesn't compare to sunday dinner. but im going to go! have fun with the summer school and help kim handle haleigh belle! i ♥ you mucho!!! tell max he's muy suave compared to these other hombres! lol. love and miss you a ton!!

-makayla♥

From Charles and Robin

2008-06-11T17:02:00.000-07:00

We're having a wonderful time. Even though we had been told what to expect, the experience has far exceeded our expectations. Today we went to the school and the children put on a wonderful program and thanked us for the support they receive. The children are so precious and their smiling faces say so much, even though we can't understand many of their words. The tie that binds it all together is when they say "Gracias Dios", and "Jesus Cristo". We are working very hard, Robin is doing great, and the food is wonderful. No matter how hard the work, I can think that the next meal is only 3 or 4 hours away and I keep going! I am already filled with thankfulness, and yet, repentance for being one of Gods spoiled American children. I wish all of Fellowship could be here! It is truly life changing. Robin and I have seen the world, but never experienced joy like this! Pray for us. We miss you Brad, Jessie, Victoria, JoAnn, Bobby and Betty. We'll write again soon.
Charles

Erin and Kelsey's Blog

2008-06-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Sam, Kimberly, Natalie, Matt, Allie, Nate, Pam, Brent, Grandma, and Grandpa. We love you!
We are having a great time.

Chris' Blog

2008-06-11T15:56:00.000-07:00

Hey Mom, Dad, Juanice, Connie, Sam, Kimberly, Nat, Matt, Allie, Nate, Pam, Brent, and anyone else I forgot. The first day went great. My trip got much better after I quit taking my altitude sickness pills. The altitude is very noticeable. I got a little winded after walking to the school today. How pathetic. We saw a lot of kids today, and I'm already having to deal with Tab wanting to bring some home!!! Surprise. Juanice, I tried to call you today, but you were at lunch. What are you thinking?!?!?!?!? Hope you all have a good week. I hope to blog more later.