BLESSED!

That's exactly how we all feel tonight. We met our Compassion children today and were just blown away. From the first time we laid eyes on the kids at Gus until we said Goodbye to them at the park this afternoon, WHAT A BLESSING! I remember Bob (Ward) walking past me to get off the bus when we first met the kids, saying, "She's so shy." Hours later we have pictures of his daughter, curled up in his lap as the afternoon was just too overwhelming for her. Joan (Tomec) blessed our socks off as she met her twin boys for the first time! I'll never forget Jose hugging her and snuggling up next to her on the cable car ride up the mountain. He was a little afraid, but was comforted by her love. Then there was Susan and Larry Ray with their "young man" Carlos. I never laughed so hard as I did at the sight of Larry running down the hill after the ball he "errantly" bounced over Carlos' head rolled down the hill.

What a day, what a trip! I'm truly BLESSED to be a part of this one!

Terry

As a person traveling on my first mission trip outside the United States, everything we're told we can expect to experience from a spiritual impact perspective is quickly coming to pass. Today was no exception. We visited with three families served by Compassion's Child Survival Program (CSP). We witnessed pregnant mothers receiving prenatal vitamins and training on how to care for their babies. We observed toddlers involved various activities designed to develop their social and motor skills. All of this took place in the homes of these families that by our standards were apalling. But above all, we prayed with these families and shared in the power of our God and His love for all His children. The CSP program is remarkable, but the need is overwhelming. An experience that clearly touched my heart. Larry Ray

"Better one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere." Our team has felt a taste of Him in our first 48 hours together. We have been incredibly blessed with comaradarie, growth, sharing, fun, laughter,and His presence in the Ecquadorians, Michelle, Tom and Shirley. We are, I think and feel, all growing and have felt Jesus every where. Praise Him! the Team

We're HERE!

Good morning, all!!! Well, finally we are here. Flexibility is our keyword, again, this week, and right off the bat we were tested. At 6:20am at the RiverTree parking lot, we were faced with an accidently locked vehicle. Not a big deal, but our luggage was inside! After a call to our fantastic Jackson Police Department, the car was no match for the officer and we were on our way. Huge lines at the airport, missed flights (can't wait for you to ask me about this adventure), tickets being wrong, you name it, 17 hours later we are in Quito!!! Michelle and Tomas met us at the airport and took us to our digs - nice!

Today we are going to church at San Pablo, shop a little in the park and then go to Michelle's for an update and dinner. Michelle is looking great and really has an enthusiasm about her. Can't wait to hear how God is moving in her life. We are tired, but awake now and thrilled that God is already working in us.

Please remember to pray for us!!!

Terry and the gang