Today was a day of relaxation and celebration, now that we have finished our homes. We got up this morning, gathered all our remaining donations and headed to the local school in San Pedro de Macoris. This school is located in a barrio of (we believe) Haitian immigrants who generally are poorer and have less available work than the Dominicans. The school is run by a wonderful Christian lady who wants to serve the poorest members of the community - those who can't afford regular school. And despite the fact they are off on their Easter Holy week holiday, they kids turned out in full force to see our students.
It was an amazing time with both groups of kids sharing songs, performances, playing games together and having so much fun. The kids from the school generally loved nothing so much as being picked up and held by the bigger kids. From what we witnessed in the rough-and-tumble in the neighbourhood, that type of affection is rare and treasured. Our students also made balloon animals, did face-painting and gave away stuffed animals to the kids at the school. Many hearts were twisted and tugged on as our time went on.
And while the kids played baseball with the locals, some intrepid young ladies accompanied by Mrs. Lowe, Phil Cheung and Mr. Barreth were taken on a short walk to visit some young, single mothers (14-16 yr olds) to be blessed with giving away blankets made specifically as donations for that purpose. They were guided by the leader of the school, and Mrs. Lowe was even able to pray with one of these young moms to accept Christ into her heart. Amen! Gloria a Dios!
Our time quickly ran out (who knew over 2 hours could go so quickly) and we headed back to the base. Some students stayed to do pool time while others boarded another bus after lunch to go visit the Caves of Miracles (Cueva de las Maravillas), which was incredible. The tour was enjoyed by all and then we all headed out for some shopping and beach time with pizza for supper in Juan Dolio.
We are doing some packing up this evening, so we can be on the road at 9am tomorrow (7am your time) to be at the airport and ready for our departure. There won't be post tomorrow, so look for us early in the night (cough, cough) at the airport.
Once again, we covet your prayers for our safe return and thank you for the many prayers up to this day. God Bless (Dios le Bendiga)
