Life...you never know what each stage of it will bring. Two weeks ago I was somewhat lonely. With everyone leaving it was really quiet and I had no idea what was in store for me. It was nice to have a quiet week catching up on rest that I needed before starting again. The week was also a blessing because it was the same week that a friend in Alaska passed away. It was so hard for me to deal with it on my own and also feeling the grief of everyone there was tough. I am sure people could tell I was not myself. I even turned down leading a Bible study because I was still in shock. God has really brought me through it in a good way. I am still overcome by sadness thinking of what people are going through but I know God is doing something great through it. I also couldn’t have done it without my friends here. There were two in particular that were so encouraging. One of them is a married lady on my team and she gave me the most wonderful hugs at the exact moments that I needed them. It was a tough week but with the help of my friends here and my Red Hill kids I got through it.
I started last week helping with the children and youth clubs there. For a long time it has only been two guys doing the work so they were more than happy to let me and two other girls, that are also interns, join. I can’t say how much I love those kids up there! They are trouble makers, rambunctious, noisy, and always climbing on you but I wouldn’t trade them for the world. I started to get to know them last year so I know some names and faces but it is so much more fun seeing them four days a week and watching them grow.
The more time I spend with them I realize how much I missed working with children. They are such a huge part of my heart. I love discipling people which I am still doing. I go up to Red Hill one night a week and meet with a group of ladies which is really nice. It is such a privilege to be a part of their lives as they grasp the truth of God for themselves. And as rewarding as that work is, I have still been missing the children. I can see why they are so close to the heart of the Father. So, all that to say how my kids in Red Hill have really helped me get through a tough week. And they have gotten me excited about working with them for the rest of the year!

Just 3 of my many kids!

Enjoying fruit leather from the states

thanks to Codi and Stephanie!