Update from July 16, 2009

Hi y'all! It has been a few days since we filled you in on all the "Bolivia happenings!" We have three days to update you on. On Tuesday, the team spent the day at one of the government-run orphanages. While there, we assisted with getting a large plot of land ready for planting corn, or "maiz." It was back-breaking work as we dug rows and removed rocks, metal, plastic and other debris that is not considered part of a garden. As tiring as this day was, we were blessed as many of the children joined us eager to assist with the work. When we mentioned that we were ready for a "siesta," or nap, the children insisted that we continue to work, or "trabajar." They were an incredible witness and example for all of us. That night, the team went to Globo's - a restaurant that specialized in "pique macho," a Bolivian meat dish with french fries, olives, tomatoes, onions and gravy. After dinner, we were entertained by Pato, a young Bolivian who leads worship at a local church, and was a close friend of Craig's during his six month stint in Bolivia. Pato played the guitar and sang many of our familiar Christian songs - in ENGLISH! Another blessing to the US team!
On Wednesday, we visited Villa Israel, one of the orphanages that is in need of some remodeling and waiting to be filled with children and new house parents. While there, we cleaned up paint spots, moved the grass, repaired a leak in the upstairs bathroom and filled in some holes in the yard. From Villa Israel, we went to the Nutrition Center, where the team was able to feed babies and toddlers whose moms temporarily cannot provide them with the nutrition they require. Once healthy, these children will be returned to their families. We were thrilled! How amazing it is that we went there thinking that we would be a blessing, but instead, WE were the ones being blessed!!! The day ended with a tour of the Simon Patina House - Simon Patina is the man responsible for developing the Nutrition House and many other foundations. He was the richest man in Bolivia, but is recognized foremost for his generosity in giving back to Bolivia.
This brings us today, Thursday. The team jumped into the bus and headed to a Christian camp in Colomi where four more orphanages are in the plans. After a one and a half hour bus ride, we toured the grounds and had a wonderful picnic lunch with the directors of the camp. We then made an unplanned visit to a Quechua family who recently lost their mother/grandmother. The family consists of eight children and a mother, who is raising eight children on her own. To make ends meet, she weaves traditional Bolivian articles as she cares for her children and maintains a home garden. The team comforted the family with Bible verses and prayers. Also, several items were purchased to help the family financially. This could very well be one of the main reasons God lead this team to Bolivia.
On a personal note, as we begin to wind down our incredible Bolivian journey, I have to say that this has been a wonderful chance for my family to reunite with our BCC family. I praise God for sharing BCC with us! Lucie Poulin