Walkin in Sunshine…Yeah!!!
Well besides roomates locking each other “Inside” their rooms (we won’t mention any names cough Rhonda and Gene) we awoke to a bright sun shinny day…our first. We heard through the grapevine that in 17 years no mission cruise has ever been rained on…well I guess we were the first and until today had missed “walkin in sunshine”!!! Guessing that we know those beanie hats and socks came in handy with the recent cold (40 degrees). We all decided that next year we are including sunglasses, baseball hats and sunscreen to ensure warmer days ahead!
Today we docked in Zaporozia and traveled to an orthopedic orphanage…home to about 80 kids all with bone or joint problems. They were between the ages of 4 and 15 and came from other orphanages for treatment of broken bones, scoliosis, or rheumatoid arthritist. It was incredibly wonderful to see these beautiful faces waiting to be loved…but even more painful to know the love they are not gettiing. This encouraged our hearts even more so…and in ways we could express His love…and a little of our own.
We gave the orphanage games, balls and sports equipment which gave us the opportunity to have a little fun. I think ALL the boys were blown away watching Andrea (head of our rec team) spin that basketball on her finger…guessing they thought a girl could not do it! Candace and Jenny played parachute games with giggling preschoolers…you should have seen those faces under the cloud of that chute! Forgotten Boyfriend Austin (sorry we forgot to mention he was the boyfriend in the skit yesterday), Rick, Chad, Troy, Chris, Alicia and Gene kept the boys entertained with soccer, karate, football and a variety of other sports. The kids loved it…and after all the desserts we’ve been eating the exercise is coming in handy!
Dan Dan Our Karate man spoke to the kids and demonstrated a few Karate moves. While doing this he told them how we are all weak without Christ. It was a testament of faith to kids who are physically week and want to be strong.
While all that was going on a few team members were asked to step inside the orphanage to speak to the 12 kids that were bed ridden or unable to go outside. They gave them a few gifts, sang, as well as performed the skit about Lost sheep. Joe, our shepherd, does a BAA..ry good job searching for his herd among the kids (they think it is funny they know where it is and he doesn’t) while Jill read the story. Amazingly a young boy inside started talking the moment they came in. As Ira interpreted we came to realize he remembered the team from last year and kept saying Sheila…who was unable to be with us this year. Proof once again how these short visit impact these kids in ways we will never know.
Last but not least we surpised Birthday Girl Kim Allen with an authentic Ukrainian celebration complete with birthday cake and accordian players. What an experience for us all to share…now if we could only get her to share her gift of chocolate candy…we all need to eat around here.
Please keep us in your prayers as we follow His path. Love to all and keep the comments coming they are so encouraging to the entire team!!!
—-33 Amigos, Yuri, Ira and Yuri No. 2
May 28, 2008
TAYLOR & FAMILY!
(mrs. adams sent an e-mail that stated we could send you a letter and you would somehow recieve it via this website however we are not sure if this is what she is talking about!)
Mikala & I are about to head to cheer where half the squad is not going to be there… =( we are so missing you and hope you have a safe trip!
-M&C-
May 28, 2008
Sounds like a great day! We are praying that you all will be blessed as much as you are blessing those kids! I am sure that you are!
Casey, we miss you and just can’t wait to hear all that you are seeing and all that you are doing!
Keep Taylor straight and give her a hug! Hugs to you all!
May 28, 2008
Joe -My shepherd -
I hope you find your sheep soon.
I would give anything to be there with you and Georgia. I know that all those children are touching your heart and Georgia told me how great you and Austin have been with all the little ones.
I love you both so much and you are in my every thought and prayer. I cannot wait til the next blog – to hear what you all did. Hurray for the sunshine -
Blessings all around -
Mom
May 28, 2008
Hey Katie & Chad, It’s so good to hear about the great day you’ve had. Reading of the little boy who asked for Shelia brought tears to my eyes. She had pics for them. I hope she got them to someone before you all left.
Horses and Tae Kwon Do went well today. Andy tests for his green belt on the 31st. We got the square footage report back and it came in at just over 3000! You were right to have it checked.
There is a meeting tonight at church about the new things in youth group, mainly no access beginning in the fall. They want the youth to serve in the church for 1 hour and then worship for 1 hour. I’m sure they’ll tell you all more about it at camp.
We’re missing you both like crazy! (including Maggie, she’s not been right since you left!) We love you!!
love, Wendy/Mama, Andrei, Elizabeth, Andy and Olivia
May 28, 2008
Hi Gene and Dan,
All of us especially the Carmeleons are very excited for you. Break the boards but don’t break anything else. The karate kids await your return.
May 28, 2008
JOE AND GEORGIA,
JACK SAYS “BUNDLE UP”
AND HE LOVES YOU VERY MUCH.
May 28, 2008
HEY MOM DAD AUSTIN AND TAYLOR,
THIS IS LUKE. I AM GLAD THAT IT WAS SUNNY . I PLAYED ALOT OF LEGOS WITH JESSICA AND HOLTON. JESSICA BUILT 3 BUILDINGS FOR ME.
I DID GREAT IN MY BASEBALL GAME. WE WON. I LOVE YOU AND I MISS YOU VERY MUCH
LUKE
May 28, 2008
MOM & DAD,
THIS IS RACHEL. JESSICA AND I MADE A CAKE TODAY. IT IS STRAWBERRY – YUM YUM. IT BROKE WHEN WE TOOK IT OUT OF THE PAN – BUT IT STILL TASTES GOOD. I LIKED MY GOGGLES VERY MUCH. I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU – TAYLOR AND AUSTIN TOO.
I LOVE YOU
RACHEL
May 28, 2008
Hi everyone!
What special memories are being brought back from last year as I read this blog. I remember so well the children at the orthopedic orphanage. Did anyone meet Eugene? He sang “You are My Sunshine” over and over again. I will never forget him. It was amazing how well he spoke English!
A special “hi” to Jill Sexton, Rhonda and fam, Marty, Kim and the rest of the FBC group. My heart is there with all of you. My prayers are over everyone. Love to all of you and those precious children.
Suzy
May 28, 2008
Hi Team! Great blog! Hi Joe and Georgia! I sure love you guys. I hope ya’ll are taking lots of pictures. I can’t wait to hear all about your mission.
I’m praying for you and your whole gang.
I love you!!
Dad
May 28, 2008
Leslie, It is so wonderful to hear where you are and what is going on with you all. We look forward to hearing from you each day. Jocie is here now and doing great. They have been to the zoo today. We continue to pray for your safety and for all of you to be touched by this trip.
We love you,
Mom and Dad
May 28, 2008
Hey Robertsons and Madges, the blog is great and it is good to hear that all is going well. I’m sorry about the bad weather but glad to hear the sun is out and shining on God’s servants. That is amazing about the child remembering names from last year. You are angels sent their way:) It makes me smile thinking about Joe, Austin, Georgia and Taylor playing with the children bringing smiles and laughter to their lives.
You will continue to be in our prayers as you reach out to God’s children and show them his love.
Hugs and smiles,
Gatlin, Daniel, Karen and Tommy
May 28, 2008
HI DADDY,
DID YOU HEAR ANY INTERESTING STORIES? MISS YOU. WE HAD ONLY 30 MINUTES OF KARATE. GUESS WHAT???!! I’LL HAVE THE WORST BIRTHDAY GIFT ON SATURDAY ‘CAUSE WE’RE GOING TO MR. HALL’S HOUSE FOR A REPRATOIRE CLASS. Love you!
~STEPH
Daddy,
How are you? I hope you are having a lot of fun in Ukraine. I read the blog and it sounds very interesting with the kids. Be safe and healthy=) Can you remember all the fun stories to tell us when you get back? Miss you, and we are all praying for you and the team everyday!
nick
Hi Dan and Pastor Gene,
Thank goodness for blog! I get to keep track of what you guys are doing. From what I read, God is doing wonderful things through the team. I’m so glad that the children are loving what you guys are doing with them. You and the team are always in our prayers. Miss you lots.
Love, hugs, and kiss,
Sharon
May 28, 2008
There’s an old saying that goes something like this….after the rain, then comes the sunshine. We’re glad that you finally had some gorgeous weather today. We also can tell you’re all having a great time and most importantly sharing Gods love with the children. In doing that, you’ll find out, that now there’s a lot of Gods sunshine in your own heart and soul.
Being the concerned parents that we are, here’s a special request for everyone. Please keep an eye on those two daughters of ours (Jill and Sandy). There’s no telling what they’ll come up with or get into while they’re together. Seriously, this trip sounds wonderful and I know that each of you are getting many blessings in many different ways as you minister. It may not seem like much now but the memories you’re making will be with you and with the children throughout the rest of yours and their lives.
We love you all through Christ and send an extra hug to Sandy and Jill (can’t wait to hear your stories and see the photos).
Larry & Faye Autry
May 28, 2008
YAY!!!! it was so good talking to you, miss taylor madge
too bad the call was lost. I was soooo happy to hear your voice. I hope you and Casey are having so much fun and I’m praying for you guys everyday 
I love you mrs. rhonda, mr. troy, austin, taylor, casey, georgia, joe, and everyone else on the trip! it’s so great what you guys are doing over there 
Those kids are truly blessed to have you guys in their presence!! Miss you guys tons!
Love you, Erin
P.S. Taylor and Mr. Troy: HAVE AN AWESOME TIME IN AFRICA! can’t wait to see you on the 14th! Be safe.
May 28, 2008
HI Pastor Gene and Dan,
Can’t wait to hear your testimonies when you come back! We miss you at the church picnic here. The Gaithersburg prayer group prayed for you and your trip last night. Take care and come home soon!
Jenny & Wai Kit
May 28, 2008
HEY MOM!! I miss you bunches and bunches! It sounds like you guys are having a lot of fun over there. I cant wait to hear all those stories about the kids and your expierences you’ve had. That is so cool that the little boy remembered that one girls name from the last time! It just shows you how much you can make a difference in their lives. I (in a way) cant wait till schools over, and yes I have some things to tell you too…lol
!! Cant wait to see you again! Tell Aunt Jill I said hi and I miss you both! 
May 28, 2008
Hey Aunt Andrea! You go girl spinning that basketball. We always knew you had mad skills. I spoke to your crew today. They are busy as usual. I messed up by texting the LSU baseball game results to Eric as he was recording the game. He said he forgave me but if it were football season I would have been in a heap of trouble. We all miss you but we are so very proud of you. I woke at 3:00 am the other morning and I immediately started praying for you and everyone on this trip. Everyone here is praying. God is so good, Andrea. He puts us in the right place at the right time. We love you and are so thankful for you.
Jeremy, Hope, and Brooks
May 28, 2008
HEY MOM!! I miss you bunches and bunches! It sounds like you guys are having a lot of fun over there. I cant wait to hear all those stories about the kids and your expierences you’ve had. That is so cool that the little boy remembered that one girls name from the last time! It just shows you how much you can make a difference in their lives. I (in a way) cant wait till schools over, and yes I have some things to tell you too…lol
!! Cant wait to see you again! Tell Aunt Jill I said hi and I miss you both! 
HUGS AND KISSES TO YOU!!
May 28, 2008
Hi, Toye! It’s good to see the messages posted about the trip. We miss you lots! Can’t wait to hear from you. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I’m very proud of you and love you lots! I had a special prayer for you this morning before my tootsies hit the floor. Grammy and Pekoe say “Hi!” too.
May 28, 2008
Casey,
It was so great to hear from you today! I’m so glad you got to do that. Sounds like the trip is going well, and I’ll still be praying for you and everyone. I just read your e-mail, and it sounds like you are really helping the children in Ukraine. I gave me chills and just about brought me to tears to hear the things you had to say. I love you and am praying for you. Can’t wait to hear about it
May 28, 2008
Rhonda & Troy,
Luke and Rachel have been amazing. They have been really wonderful for both me and Jessica. My only problem is that they are so snuggly – it doesn’t make me want to get out of bed and go to work in the morning. Rachel keeps saying that she wants to come on the trip with you all when she is 13 yrs. old.
Luke says that he wants chocolate cheesecake for his birthday…so we are working on that.
They came to visit me at work today and of course everyone though that they were precious!!!
Thanks for loanig them to me
Taylor,
You better be glad that you are not on the work trip with Jack and his gang – they said it has been over 100 everyday and that the humidity is awful – so I can only imagine how stinky they might be – also no air conditioning at night.
Austin& Joe
Are you keeping each other in line? Nobody has shaved your heads during the night have they??? I heard that they were planning to and sell locks of hair on ebay to the girls. we keep getting calls from girls asking if the sale has started yet.
George,
I hope you took a picture of your special little one today. i know he will be in your heart forever. I know that you will have so many to tell me about when you get home.
THANK YOU ALL FOR BEING OUR HEARTS AND HANDS THERE!!!
WE LOVE YOU!!
MOM/SUSAN
May 28, 2008
Mommy (Andrea),
Our Mom has mad basketball skills! You guys need to get her to do her dribbling drills. While she is doing her drills get her to sing as well. She sounds like an Angel!
Mommy, we miss you and love you sugams bugums cuppy cakes! We are praying for you every day.
Andrea, the boys and I are having a good time but we are missing you terribly. We are so proud of you for spreading the Gospel to so many children and that makes the sacrifice well worth it. We look forward to talking to you soon. God’s blessing to you and the group. Love you!
May 28, 2008
Chad & Katie,
Greeting from Charleston, Tennessee. I’m sure there’s a family in middle Tennessee missing you both tremendously. But I’m even more sure they’re so proud of you both for doing what God has called you to do.
What a blessing it is to see people being faithful to God’s calling for mission work!!!! While it may seem like you’re not accomplishing much at times, just remember that “little is much when God is in it!”
Many, many, many prayers are going up for you while you’re there, and will continue as you travel home.
Looking forward to meeting you both……hopefully before we’re raptured!
May 28, 2008
Wow! I am so amazed at what you guys are doing. Every one of you willingly left the comfort of the “Williamson County Bubble” and traveled halfway across the world to brave cold weather, inconvenience, fatigue, discomfort, long hours of travel and the emotional struggles of seeing all these sweet kids. Not to mention the days and months of preparation leading up to the trip. And not only that, you actually PAID to do it!
But to me none of that is the amazing part. The amazing part is that you did it because of your love for and obedience to Christ. That is so inspiring.
In this world there are lots of us who care, and pray, and support, and encourage. And that’s important. But there are few who actually pack their bags and head off to touch and talk to and love hurting people desperate for Hope. Few who leave home in order to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty being the face and heart of Jesus to complete strangers.
You all are an inspiration to me and my family. Praise God for your servant’s hearts and your passion. You are all covered in prayer daily by everyone back here who loves you! Grace & Peace, Rob, Sami, & Maggie
May 28, 2008
Dear Gene and Dan,
We thank God always for you and your work amongst the kids. We pray that God will open many doors for you to share and reach out the lost souls. You are the very best from us/CCCGW to be sent out for this trip. God bless and take care.
Love,
Stan & Cindy
May 29, 2008
Dear Mama T,
Goodness Goodness gracious!! It most definitely sounds like a total and complete blast!! Megga Megga P-A-R-T-Y! Taylor i bet you were majorly pumped with the whole “games and sports day”, you know… you always were that competitive lil’ fighter! ((especially with the infamous contest of holding your breath under water and all… but thats regardless)). AND the previous day with the “Everything” skit, man-o-man, i bet you were killa considering we practiced it hard core that one time after school, and at that point you were pretty much already a pro. Whoa baby, i miss your gorgeous shining face so so so much. (that was three, count them, three “so’s”)Is it entirely creepy that i put on a dress i still have of yours the other night just so i could have that recognizable scent of you near?? yeah, that totally was a bit strange. but you get me. Oh gee bra, you are truly beautiful in every sense of the word and it runs much deeper than simply skin, (though me and every sane person thinks your a babe) AY! I cannot wait to see you! Keep having a celebration. Your in all of our prayers err-single-day. Man I didn’t realize how much I really miss you until i forced myself to confront the fact that I won’t be seeing you for a very loooong time. BUT THATS ALRIGHT, because your saving the world! You megga hot super hero! I’ve got three words for you: spandex jump suit. YEAH!
If you read this, close your eyes and concentrate real hard, (don’t just pretend to now actually do it girl!), and maybe, hopefully you’ll hear my love being teleported through the vast distances of space and time. It’s in my singig voice so the sound should be pretty distink. ARGH! I’m rambling! We’re with you. Always. I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU THRICE TIMES!
Caroline Schlemp (by the way, I’ve recently discovered it much more fun to pronounce my last name with the “ch”)
May 29, 2008
SORRY! I just went to get some icecream when it dawned on me i forgot to tell you how proud I am of you. So I ran ran ran back upstairs.
Taylor, I am so proud of you. You are doing amazing things all over the world, truly changing people’s lives for the better. I am so honored to be a part of your life. You are so incredible in so many ways. All of you there are absolutely spectacular for the precious memories and life-changing experiences you are giveing these children. I mean, I don’t want to go all after school special on you here, but I said what I said and I meant every word. And again. Love Love Love Love. I love you. AH!
schlemp.
May 29, 2008
Hey Sandy!
We are praying for you guys back home…sounds like you are having an amazing time. We can’t wait to hear all about it! Miss you!
May 29, 2008
Too bad about the weather. It sounds like everyone’s spirits are sunny though.
Today’s fun fact. The Ukraine is slightly smaller than Texas and slightly bigger than France. It is a formidable agricultural powerhouse feeding most of Eastern Europe…Moscow’s answer to Kansas. According to the CIA, the Ukraine has 437 airports of which 193 have paved runways. Makes you wonder a bit about the rest!
Love to all, keep up the inspired work.
May 29, 2008
Toye,
Hope you are having a great day in the Ukraine. Your Dad called last night to see how you are doing. Hopefully they will be able to post a message for you. I hope it gets a little warmer there. It’s exciting that you are a young lady who wants to make a difference. I can’t wait to hear about your experiences while there.
Love you!
Momma
May 29, 2008
The posts are awesome and give us a vivid image of what you guys are accomplishing. We are all proud and encouraged by the good work God is doing through all of you. We always talk about how the kids lives will be changed but in reality, everyone of your lives will be far more affected and changed. God blesses those who help others in need. Keep up the great work.
A big HELLO to Yuri and Ira.
I hope you are making Troy do most of the grunt work.
Tp my darling wife, Jill, we miss your deeply and the boys and I are so proud of you for making this sacrifice to help these children. We love you and hope every day is more fruitful than the last. God blessed me with you.
Rex
May 29, 2008
What a flood of memories came when I read about the sweet boy asking for Sheila. I don’t think any of us on the trip last year will forget him singing, “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine…” with Sheila playing the guitar next to him. The joy on his face was priceless. Little did Sheila know at that point, that she was his “sunshine” for more than just a few minutes of that day.
I hope this encourages each of you every day of this trip. You really are making an impact on each of these children. I know for me, already one year after the trip, that sweet boy has impacted my life by showing the joy his had despite his situation.
Big hugs to all my buddies!!!
love,
Nancy
May 29, 2008
Olivia I found it, and i remembered the site ha. I hope your having alot of fun it sure sounds like you guys are. I love you and cant wait to see you when you get back.
May 29, 2008
RHONDA,
I love you!!!!!!!!
it was so great to talk to you and to all the details. Jessica’s phone number is 615-574-8854 – she said that she will keep the house phone and hers nearby this afternoon in case you try and call.
George,
I hear that you can really do the chicken dance – you are so shy (wink wink nudge nudge) that I cannot believe that you were able to get them up there.
Joe -
So – you and Austin were doing a little surfing on the rough waters last night? What do you think of life on the ship. You and Austin are eating your fare share I am sure.
We all check the computer excited to see what you have done each day.
I love you!!!
Mom/Susan
PS> _ OH TAYLOR———— how do you make that camera take black and white photos???? and just a reminder that Easter is on Sunday this year.
May 29, 2008
How i wish i was there! i am so confident that God is doing big things over there as you all are allowing Him to use you as his instruments to show so many a Big loving father that many do not know! Rec team- i am praying for you all, that something that seems so little is so huge in their eyes, i pray for some sweet one on one contact time with the boys and girls and most of all that the Americans beat the Ukrainians this year in the big soccer match. Taylor, Austin, Rhonda and Troy know that i am continually praying for you all for strength and peace each day and am so thankful to have people who are so obdient to Lord in my life as He has great plans for each of you! I love you and miss you all!
May 29, 2008
hey everyone,
I get on the computer often to see if you all have updated this site. Can’t wait to hear what you did today!
I am sure you all are making such an impact on these kids lives. I pray God gives you the strength and energy to play, to sing, to love on the kids.
Casey, we are missing you and can’t wait till you are home.
Hope Taylor is keeping you in line. Are you out of Nutri-grain bars yet? We love you!!
May 29, 2008
How I wish I could be with you as you are the voice of Jesus singing to the little ones! I can see Him singing Psalms to the children in the New Testament Story. Way to go, Debra! Linds, I bet kids are hanging on to you, not wanting you to leave. You truly have a charisim for children. Learning any Russian? There was some on my cell when I tried to call you back! Jim and I pray for your mission and safety each day. We can’t wait to hear your stories! XXXXXOOOO
May 29, 2008
Hey there big mama T!
I miss you so very very much but being over there changing lives is fabulous beyond reason. I send my love through Teddy so give him a tight hug ;] I still have the prayer dates but I’m prayin’ everyday! Tell Casey and your family I say hellooo and give them my love as well, along with everyone else. What you’re doing touches me deeply, and one day I want to do exactly what you’re experiencing right now. We are all so very proud of you. I have so much to tell you when you get back, and I can’t wait to hear what you have to say. Tonight we’re going to our favorite restaurant with so many memories, and I know you will be there in presence, no matter how many miles away you are, because we are forever linked together in our hearts. And now that sounded like I’ll never see you again or something hahahaha. But siriou-sly, don’t worry, you aren’t missing much in comparison to the time of your life you are having. Be safe and give that famous taylor love to everyone.
I love you to the very deps of my soul,
Cal
p.s. This is our year babay! Live it up! NLS!!!
pps. Africa will be AMAZING. I don’t think you know how much I dream of being there with you. So soak it all up and send every experience to me !
May 29, 2008
Toye, hope things are going well and that you are spreading soooooo many blessings. I am so proud of your Christ-like compassionate spirit and in your desire to help make our world a little bit better place. YOU AND ALL OF YOUR COHOROTS ARE AWESOME!!!! Take Care!!!
May 29, 2008
Hello from Franklin. Praying for all of you and especially Candace, Jenny and Toye. Expecting a very hot day tomorrow–90. Know each of you on the team are leaving a “sweet savor” as you labor for the Lord. Praying for your health and strength.
Betty & Bob
May 29, 2008
Leslie:
Praying you “can do all things through Christ who gives you strength”.I know God can use every thing you do to bring light in dark places. Love, Reba
May 29, 2008
Casey Vaughn and Taylor Madge-
Wow.What an amazing experience you guys are apart of.I can only imagine the breath taking experiences you guys are accomplishing right now.I mean,to put a smile on my brother’s faces just makes my day,so i can’t even picture the joy in my heart to put a smile on another childs face,in need.You guys are on your way to making a difference in this world,and this is definitely where it starts.I’m praying for not only you guys,but the whole team.Can’t wait to see you both and the awesome pictures in store.Taylor-have an amazing trip to Africa.That should be awesome!You and your dad be safe.Erin and I are going crazy with out you here!And Case,i really need your help with something.I have no one to go with me to dress rehearsal on Thursday June 5.And with your dace experience it would be awesome if you could go with me.And i would really appreciate it.I just don’t want to be there by myself.Let me know when you get back.And ill catch you up on a few things!
Love you both with all my heart!
You guys are in my prayers!
Love,
Addie
P.S.-Casey,i agree with your momma.Keep in line!
May 29, 2008
Hi, Toye!
Hope you are having an awesome trip! Can’t wait to hear more about your trip and all the exciting experiences you are having. I want to hear every detail when you return home. It’s so wonderful that you are taking the Sonshine to brighten the darkness. Take care of yourself and stay healthy and strong.
You are in my prayers, Sweetie.
Grammy says she’s praying for you too.
Momma
May 30, 2008
The Message you all bring will really touch these kids in a special way— thanks, Dan for bringing out the real principle that no matter the circumstances, with Christ we are strong! Keep praying and keep trusting– God does His Will so much better than we do ours!
Dan, I did explain to Sharon how the blog works, but only through email. And I think it may have been unclear. I saw her Sunday and greeted her as a “fellow widow in Christ”! You’ve got a wonderful partner– she’s so supportive and really was excited for you and the opportunities you will have!
Gene,
I love you; sorry I haven’t written sooner. Paige had her music concert on Tuesday and it was great. Today she goes to King’s Dominion- so of course, she was up bright and early! Julia is Julia! Mom is watering your tomatoes, sweeping the driveway and doing my 3 tons of laundry in the basement!
We still can’t figure out what date you are back in MD? I’m so glad that you have been able to join the trip this year— my heartfelt thanks go to everyone on the HopeHouse team that encourages, teaches, supports and unlocks my husband!
Heaps of blessings on you all! Love, Ingrid
May 30, 2008
Candace and Jenny,
What an incredible adventure! I can’t wait to hear all about it. I know you both are such a blessing to these kids. Candace, I’m sure you are the star of the skits. These kids will look up to you and always remember you for the love you are showing them. Keep up the great work. We missed you both last night at Ruby’s graduation celebration. Jenny, you will be happy to know that Ross looked like he was handling the part of Mr. Mom just fine as I watched him keeping up with the little man who was on the loose. He will have a great appreciation for you when you return. You both are in our prayers over here on the other side of the world. Have fun, listen to God speak to your heart as you serve. And Candace, be prepared to tell us all about it. I can’t wait.
Kelly
May 30, 2008
HI all! A cool morning in west Texas on it’s way to a sweltering day. I’m guessin’ ya’ll are at the end of your day or beyond at this time.
Keep you the good work, thinking about you always.
We’re preparing for a wedding tomorrow, a concert Sunday, another wedding next Saturday and more.
Best wishes and much love
Dad
May 30, 2008
Dear Friends,
Our family continues to pray for you constantly. How wonderful to hear all of the great reports.
How’s my Rhonda? Please make it easy on her so she’ll want to do this again. (Just kidding–or not…..).
Special love to Cousin Gene,my friend Jill,and the Madge clan. Chad, I know you’re doing an incredible job with relief coordination. Thank you for all of your hard work.
How I appreciate all of you. Thank you for being the hands, feet, and heart of Christ.
With Love and Appreciation,
Deneen
May 30, 2008
Hello Madge Family, You all are truly an inspiration! What you are doing for all of the kids is beyond words. Can’t wait to hear about all of your experiences and the stories about the kids. We are missing Taylor’s infectious laugh and love of life (she gets that from her momma!) We are sending lots prayers your way for you all and the kids! Taylor and Troy: have a wonderful, safe trip to Africa. We will be thinking about you and look forward to hearing about that trip too! Love from the Doyle Family
May 30, 2008
how wonderful to read of what is happening in Ukraine. We, over at Forest Hills Baptist, are lifting you brothers and sisters up in prayer daily. May God continue to work wonders through each of you. Thank you for your hard work and dedication in HIS NAME!! You are the fragrance of life and hope to everyone you come in contact with.
Wayne and Carrie
2 Cor 2:14
May 30, 2008
Hi mom and dad i miss you. were are going out to eat.I can,t wait to see you.love luke
May 30, 2008
Ok…this is really Callie. But Kenna asked me to write hello for her because both of her computers are broken :[ So pretend the words I love you so much, como no? are coming out of Kens mouth right now straight to you. She misses seeing your beautiful face everyday, as we all do. And of course everyone on this trip is in her prayers. Can’t wait to see you!!!!!
Peace,
Kenna
..callie
May 30, 2008
Taylor,
You are truly on of a kind! I’m sure you are sharing your love with every single child you see. Like my mom said above, we miss your laugh! I miss your smile, your voice, and your presence. I can’t wait to hear all about your trip, and I have so much to tell you! I can keep you updated since I have my summer journal 
Stay beautiful, my lil cha chi, tayl fish, big mama t, and know that lil e is thinking about you everyday!
haha. by the way, Lauren and I saw Miley at Greenhills. We were going to talk to her about you, but decided not to 
Anyways, like Lauren said, I hope this trip is impacting you in more ways than you could have imagined. I’m sure you are having the time of your life! We are still on for another movie night! I already talked to tucker about it haha. 
can’t wait to see you when you get back!
See ya soon!
It seems like its been weeks since I saw you last! I miss you terribly. We are soooo proud of what you are doing over there
Casey,
Oh how I miss your sweet smile! Me and Amber miss pretending to be celebrities with you!
The Madges,
You guys are such an inspiration to me! Keep spreading the peace, love, and happiness, and know that you are all in my prayers! (HAVE FUN IN AFRICA, MR. TROY AND TAYLOR)
Georgia and Joe,
Wow. I’m sure you guys are having an awesome time over there! Those kids are so lucky to have you two in their presence. I’m sure you’ve made a huge impact in their lives
Love always, Erin
(sorry this is so long)
May 30, 2008
Hey everyone!!
It’s great to hear how God is already working!! It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since I was there…what memories !!
I am praying for many blessings for you and for God to show Himself mightily to each one of you during this trip. You are such a blessing to these children!!
Toye, I know you are blessed already, but know that I am praying for you…It is so awesome to see young people such as yourself give of themselves to serve God!
To Rhonda and Troy, and all the clan returning from last year,”You go guys!!!”
Love in Christ,
Dawn
May 30, 2008
precious taylor rae (big mamma T), casey, joe, austin, georgia, mr troy, and ms rhonda:
we miss you all so much!
i have been praying and praying for all the things jesus is putting on your heart, whatever they might be.
taylor, we got our camp clothes on wednesday, and i grabbed yours for you
your journey to africa in a few days has really been on my heart, and i just know God is going to reveal himself to you in ways you haven’t seen, i just know it.
i love you all, God bless
-laur
(big L)
Jun 01, 2008
Hi Jill,
We miss your smiling face can’t wait to see you when you return. Jay and I are praying for your team everyday. I am sure you have touched many lives and are truly being blessed by this trip. I can’t wait to see your pictures and hear about your journey. Have safe travels home. ( maybe you can get a little shopping in on your way home).
Love
Sandy