Si Se Puede!

Thursday was a short day of physical labor, but a full day of more Tican adventures. For our morning huddle we chanted, "Si, se puede!" ("Yes, we can!) to finish the half day with as much energy as we had on the first day! We added a new job site, which entailed...can
you guess....more retaining walls at the local elementary school across the street from the Strong Missions house. Each team wrapped up the week with a burst of energy to complete small projects around their job sight and finish well. The funny thing is, even though we will not get to see the final product of these projects, we know the Lord will provide more volunteers to finish. We trust in His work and know we have only planted seeds for these massive projects that will greatly benefit the community of Carrillos.

After quick showers and lunch, we headed to a massive tourist shop near Alajuela, the largest city near Carrillos. I'm sure most of you will see your students' many great finds from this lovely store. We even got a discount since we know Charlie...he really is a great person to know around these parts!

We quickly stowed away our newest Tican treasures and headed to a local church down the road. I'm sorry to say I don't know the name of it. It is the church of Luis, a Carrillos Renaissance man, who is Charlie's go-to guy when it comes to transportation and carting teams around the country. Luis's church just began a feeding program for children in the evenings. When we arrived at the church, we immediately began playing games of "Pato, Pato, Gonzo" or "Duck, Duck, Goose" as we say and kicking around the futbol. Kids climbed all over the students and enjoyed every piggyback ride, high five, and hug we gave them. After playing for a while, we served almost 50 kids a meal and some parents as well. It was truly humbling to see the amount of food served from such a small kitchen and sanctuary. No matter what the space or the means, this congregation knows they are the hands and feet of Christ and they are willing to serve their community. It was amazing to be a part of this evening!

Tomorrow we are leaving Carrillos for the beach of Manuel Antonio. We will pack our bags and say goodbye to many dear friends of Strong Missions. Many we may never see again, but others hopefully soon. Even if you don't know their names, please pray for the staff at Strong Missions. The work they are doing for the body of of Christ is such a blessing to so many people and I know they will appreciate your prayers. University UMC from San Antonio is actually their next group so they are excited to have some more Texans around...well, they should be at least!

Here are some pictures from the day. Blessings and goodnight! ~Cici

Girls with Terry, our tiny Tican translator and guide.














Terrell with our dance instructor and construction guide, Wilmur.













At the church with the kiddos.





























Guys giving piggyback rides to the chicos!



























Guitar lessons from Devin.













Peace and blessings from Crockett and his new friend.

















Kids waiting to be fed! They ate up every bite.













Spencer with a precious Tican babe.