Camp

I just realized that it's been over a week since I last blogged- oops! We have been SO busy that I haven't had time to sit down and write. We've traveled around the southern part of the country a little bit and it is sooo beautiful. I would gladly post pictures if I hadnt dropped my camera and broken the lense off.. Shocker that I did that, I know. :)
We spent most of our time putting on a camp for 72 of my favorite children on this planet. Every year I count down the days until I get to hug them again- hearing "chi Amanda!" (sister Amanda) yelled over & over across the resort for 5 days brought healing to my heart. We laughed and laughed like we always do, played games, worshipped together, learned about Paul and how we can be like him, and ate until we were full. Some of my sweetest moments were sitting with girls by the pool, talking about life (when we could communicate) or just holding hands and not saying a thing when we couldn't. I love the bond I have with these children- one that is formed through Christ. It is precious to me!
There is one girl who is going through some really dark, hard things inside her. Something happened to her when she was younger and went home for a visit that she is his now speaking about, and it is affecting her in most areas of her life. I was able to sit and pray with her while a pastor prayed over her- I will never forget her weeping while he had her repeat after him a prayer of forgiveness for the person that hurt her. The sound of brokenneas in her voice was something a child should never have to feel so young. The sin in this world is undescribable. Pray for her & her healing process- especially for her HOL mother as she walks through it with her.
Another sweet memory is the last night, when we got together to celebrate 10 years of the homes being established. The oldest child, who is going to college this year, gave a speech and spoke about the gift of being redeemed by the Lord & cared for in her home. She gave advice to all the other children to honor their parents & cherish their siblings. I am so proud of her and how she is letting God mold her. I wish I has pictures to go with this post- Ill have to add them when I get home!
Now we're back in the city for 2 more days before we head home. I have realt mixed emotions about that- im ready for a fountain drink & pancakes but it is going to break my heart to leave this place & these people. I have seen so much that I dont want to go home and forget. Pray that I listen well to what God wants me to do with it all.