Gods love at 100 degrees

Today started as a warm Belizeian morning filled with pancakes, eggs, and laughter. We enjoyed our first worship together as a team led by Lyn around the breakfast table as we reflected on the scripture John 13:1-15. If you aren't familiar with this scripture, it is the story of Jesus washing Peter's feet before the festival of Passover. We primarily focused on our worth relating to God's love in this scripture reading, and the realization of that worth in service to others. After discussion, it was a unanimous decision that our worth was found in service to Los Tambos. Our worth is felt every time those tiny arms wrap around us or when those smiles break out ear to ear watching the van roll up. Today was definitely a day where our worth to God was felt. We started our day at Los Tambos hearing the children at their assembly where they sang the national anthem, prayed, and recited their pledge of allegiance. Afterwards, the team split into several groups, each group assigned to painting the classrooms, home visits delivering rice and beans, and/ or making playground repairs. Our morning passed by so quickly as the a day got hotter and hotter. During lunchtime, several team members ate lunch with several of the high school graduates to catch up, reminisce about their high school days, and talk about opportunities they might have for furthering their education. It was full of amazing God moments as we listened to our sweet friends discuss the success their high school diplomas had allowed, and several even offered ideas regarding improving the education program. During the afternoon, our various groups continued to work in the hot sun. When the final bell rang it was officially the best time of the day.... VBS TIME!!! The kids swarmed the hut ready to sing our famous songs, including but not limited to "Father Abraham" and "This Little Light of Mine". After we read the lesson about Moses and the burning bush, we helped the children assemble beautiful bracelets for a craft. As we packed up to head back to the mission house, we received word of a fire spreading toward the mission house. As I referenced the hot sun earlier, allow me to highlight just how very HOT and dry today was, as it caused many fires to surround us. The In His Will Staff was luckily able to contain the fires. We continue to pray that the fire will die down during the night and that our sweet friends will stay safe. We have ended the day exhausted, but with full and happy hearts. We look forward to another day tomorrow, loving, laughing, serving, feeling His love and our own worth together. 

Together Again

Today started our first full day in Belize and what a beautiful day it was!

Group 1 awoke with excitement to start the day, but then soon remembered that our beloved Group 2 was still missing. Luckily for Group 1, Mrs. Faye made her famous sticky buns to fill the gaping hole in their hearts. Afterwards, Group 1 headed to church to worship at St. Andrews in San Ignacio. The service was great as always, and with hungry tummys we headed to a graduation lunch in honor of Joshua Gonzalez at Cahal Pech. Joshua was the only graduate this year, and we were thrilled to support him at his graduation. The Gonzalez family joined us for a yummy lunch! Finally, after what felt like an eternity without our other half we were reunited with our Group 2. The team members took an interesting ferry ride and van drive to our sweet Los Tambos. The sweet faces swarmed team members to get their hugs (some willingly and some in exchange for Olivia's bag of Life Savers). The feeling that enveloped our team members hearts today is the very reason we have been back to this country year after year. The best part is it's only the beginning!

Today started our first full day in Belize and what a beautiful day it was!

Partial Arrival 2016

3:15 AM: First group (Lyn Oakley, Natalie Oakley, Chandler Hawsey, Olivia Bell, Kobe Wheeler, Sue Wheeler, Don Grogan, Mark Pozega, David Thomas, Jack Thomas, and Johnny Biddle) arrives at FCPC and heads to the airport.

5:30 AM: Second group (Theresa McManus, Lang McManus, Mackenzie McManus, Mary Beth New, Isaac New, Robin French, Eli French, Andy Lamb, Julie Lamb, Lucas Lamb, and Kelley McDonough) arrives at FCPC and heads to the airport.

6:30 AM: Group 1 lands in Charlotte.

7:15 AM:  Group 2 deplaned due to fog and flight is cancelled.

9:35 AM: With a broken heart, Group 1 boards plane to Belize City without Group 2:(

11:00 AM: Group 1 lands in Belize City, not only missing Group 2, but also learns tote number 1 has taken a vacation to Chicago.

12:00 PM: Group 2 finally makes their way to Charlotte, but only to find out they will be unable to fly into their beloved Belize City until tomorrow.

2:45 PM: Following tradition, Group 1 enjoys a delicious meal at Cheers.

3:30 PM: With happy hearts and full bellies, Group 1 stops to do some shopping at the Art Box, and then continues on their way to the mission house.

4:00 PM: Group 1 arrives at the mission house greeted by Mrs. Faye, and proceeds to settle into their cabins. Afterwards, several members enjoyed a beautiful walk around the compound with a gorgeous sunset to keep them company.



6:00 PM: Group 1 enjoys a lovely meal prepared by Mrs. Faye enjoying each others company and laughter.

After a long exciting journey we have begun our adventure in Belize. Although, we have had some slight bumps in the road today, both literally and figuratively, it is with thankful hearts we end our day. We cannot wait for the rest of our team members to be here tomorrow!