Church Building, Skyping, Baby Hugging.....all in a day's work.

Today we spent the day out in the bush at the site where we will be building a church for the people living there to worship in.  We dug a 2 foot deep trench for the foundation of the building under the hot African sun in 100 degree temperatures. 

We went through a lot of water and sunscreen.  Everyone worked so very hard despite the heat and sun.  Amy was an amazing worker and we were all impressed with her efforts.  Tyler has now been nicknamed “The Mole” for his fast digging skills.  Jordan displayed his servant’s heart.  After digging all day, the truck carrying the stone for the work for tomorrow showed up.  The men were shoveling the heavy load off onto the ground.  Without being asked, Jordan hopped up onto the truck and assisted the 3 Mozambican men in this effort.  We all enjoyed a traditional Mozambican lunch of rice and beans under the shade of a tree. 

I think the best part of the kids was playing soccer with the neighborhood boys who were hanging out and watching us.  Once our work was done, we returned to our home to Skype with the elementary students at the 3-5 chapel.  We then went to the Iris Matola-Rio children’s center.  We figured we were already hot and dirty, so why not slip down for a quick introductory visit with the children before dinner.  The students thoroughly enjoyed the visit.  The children sang, danced, but mostly climbed and jumped all over us. Everyone was stretched when the children invited the team members to dance as well.  They all gave it a shot! The kids laughed heartily at us. Everyone was having such a good time that I literally could not get them to leave!  Even for the pizza and cold drinks that was waiting for them.  I finally had to get in the car, start it, and threaten to leave without them.  They got in only after I promised to bring them back tomorrow after their work is done.  Everyone is now soundly asleep in the guesthouse next door.  Sweet dreams to all!