Harvest Romania '17

How was Romania?

The much anticipated, yet somewhat dreaded question.

Typically I like to have a 30 second "elevator speech" ready when I return from overseas.  The bit that explains the basic questions, a highlight and something little I remember.  I did think about what I wanted to say, but it's so hard for me!

So many memories, little life lessons, smiles, jokes, beautiful scenery, the love of Jesus showcased through His people.

The kids... expressing themselves in broken English, smiling from ear-to-ear, intent faces as they quoted their memory verses, simple child-like prayers that conveyed more meaning than an entire sermon.

The difficult times... utter chaos of kids who can't understand the instructions you're trying to so patiently give, the groans when they see another long memory verse, the hot hot sun, the language barrier.

And then I remember that love doesn't need words, it has a language all its own.  And it's a universal language that everyone can hear and understand.

It's when you smile and remain calm when you feel like shouting, it's giving another hug, watching a soccer game and yelling Bravo! a million times, cheering for another trampoline trick, making yet another sticky s'more (and seeing the delight as they sink thier teeth into thier very first gooey campfire delicacy.

Snippet from one of the young boys on my team.
"Anna, do you know why I love Americans so much?"
"No, why?"
"Because you like to give hugs.  And people here don't do that very much."

Here are some pictures.  I hope to post stories and specific memories soon.

I'm convinced that ice cream/gelato brings people together!

Quick bite to eat on the bus as we head to the camp!

Craft time!

My fabulous team: Aquamazing

We divided the 41 kids up into 6 teams for small groups throughout the week.

Each team had a bandana that represented their team color.

Smiles all around!

The camp theme was all about drawing closer to God.  We talked about God Himself, the Word of God, Prayer, Worship, Fruit of the Spirit, and being doers of the Word.

Yes, I think I can pronounce all of those words

Group selfie, with a selfie stick of course.