Day one in the village - such love abounds!

We arose early, ate breakfast and were heading to the train station by 6:40 this morning. . . a great day was in store for us!

The train was clearly outfitted for much hotter weather with a ton of fans hanging from the ceiling. We continued to be blessed with safe travels under cool temperatures (80s).

With the recent abundance of rain here, there was a ton of work going on in rice fields.

Arriving at the village we were welcomed with a huge billboard of . . . . ourselves (taken from our weekend simulation in Chicago in November). We were presented with more leis made with Jasmin (which we learned attracts snakes - so we will not be bringing those close to our tents!). In addition, they were very excited to fire up a line of fireworks that was only "slightly" dangerous :).

We were soon busy putting up our Tent City close to KC3, we feel pretty blessed that they put a little sand down to soften the ground. . . . at least that was the intent, and we are thankful.

We enjoyed some fresh coconut with lunch and then soon started our separate missions. The homes began construction, and the medical team started learning some cooking techniques as well as diabetes and blood pressure screenings. . . . we are off and running.

We finished the night with giving a presentation about home repairs that they can do to help save money, keep safe, and stay healthy - real critical information to the people. This is part of our way of helping them understand the concept of "doing small things to prevent big problems", which when you are used to living for just surviving the next day. . . such future thinking does not come naturally - it was a great night!

I want to leave you with this image as a continual reminder of the teams that have come before us as we all stand on the foundations of those missions. Among many other things, by the end of the week GCC/Life Mission with finish its 18th home in this village. . . . . refusing to pursue any lesser purpose than bringing Up There, Down Here!

Peace be with you all - keep praying please. . . it makes such a difference!!!