Day 3 - REPOST - Kids, kids and more kids!

Today we held hands, played games and touched the faces of nearly 300 children. We continue to be amazed at their joy in such circumstances. In the morning we joined the Sobeta project for their Saturday Feeding program. We were blessed to help distribute a wonderful meal to each of the children there. We also played games and sang songs. We draw a lot of attention everywhere we go, but we are always treated with so much respect...so much different than other "minority" groups. (pics below show some of the action).

We also got to meet our sponsor new sponsor children!! Since our (Dan & Shadley) sponsor child is being adopted we transferred to a new child who is even younger. I got to meet him and his mother at Sobeta. Also, some other team members were blessed to be able to meet the children they will sponsor. We look forward to getting more information about these children and their circumstances through email from the sponsorship staff at YZM. We also look forward to encouraging more and more people in Iowa to join with us in supporting this AMAZING ministry!!!

(sorry Rae & Jason, I didn't find a picture for you)

Remember 2 days ago when we visited a family in need and Phil gave 50 birr to help with her debt? She was there for a wonderful reunion.

This afternoon we got to help distribute some of the shoes and clothing donations we brought to children in their youth group. Phil (Scheels sales person) was definitely in his element as he fit each child with shoes. These children were all older than 12 years old. They were a little more shy and reserved than the younger kids (teenagers are teenagers, in America or Ethiopia!) but were very appreciative of the gifts. We have such a hard time accepting the appreciation because we feel so unworthy. We have tried to hard to give all of the glory and praise to God, but it still feels like we are not worthy of their admiration and respect for us.

This evening we enjoyed traditional music and dance at a cultural restaurant. Ethiopian culture is SO rich! Dan was even pulled up onto the stage for some dancing! Expect to see that video on YouTube soon!

We are starting to wind down on our interaction with the kids and YZM beneficiaries. We will enjoy church with Burtikan and Nesibu tomorrow morning, lunch at their home and we will spend the evening learning more about Burtikan's story and her vision for YZM!

TO ALL OF OUR FRIENDS & FAMILY - We miss you! We Love You! We appreciate your sacrifice during this time!!!

Love - the team!

ps - keep praying please!