Day Camp Report!

Hard to believe, but Day Camp is over. 

Three days only this year, so I'm sure that's part of why it seemed to go so fast.  They were three packed-full days, however, and so much fun!

Led by our Team 'ringer' Becky, whose fluent Thai and experience teaching ESL at university level have been such an asset, we were able to work with a total of 40 children toward some specific learning outcomes in English.  Not only that, but we had the chance to introduce them to the 'tradition' of Easter, some of them hearing the story of Jesus' death, burial and resurrection for the very first time.  Based on the seeds that were planted last year (many children were back from 2012 ESL Camp) and the progressive way we talked about Jesus throughout the three days, we had hoped that some children might be ready to make a decision to follow Jesus.  No children responded to that invitation this time.  However, every child, when asked if our Highview Team could pray over them for their spiritual journey in knowing Jesus better, stood up.  What a beautiful this to pray over these incredible kids.

Let's not forget to mention the fun for fun's sake parts of camp as well.  Celebrating Songkran (Thai New Year) complete with water fights, was hilarious.  Beading and sports were hits for activities, of course.  And the children seemed to really get into decorating Easter eggs.

Today is Thursday.  We are resting, pausing, observing a Sabbath.  The Team has worked hard and has been incredibly flexible with a myriad of changes in schedules and plans, typical for Thai ministry, but harder for us Westerners.  Some of us have experienced some minor health issues including strange bug bites, a swollen foot, one bout of what is probably a 48 hour flu, and various tummy troubles.  Even so, all symptoms are improving and everyone is staying in great spirits.  We are having perfect weather!  Not too hot, cool evenings for good sleep, and very little humidity.  Sorry to hear of the reports of more snow back home. :(

Now we are in the next phase of our time away, focused mostly on building relationships with our Thai family. 

Please keep praying.  For Day Camp kids.  For our own Hot Springs family.  For the health and well being of the Team.

Again and again, thanks for letting us be here. 

Ruth Anne