A reason to celebrate!

Message for the Day: “Life is precious and time is a key element. Let’s make every moment count and help those who have a greater need than our own.” -Unknown

Journal: Irene Thomas

Wednesday, June 22 started out like any other day. Then it all changed in honor of Allen’s birthday! A cake with eight birthday candles and the happy birthday song. The journal was read and the starfish story was related. Following breakfast we boarded the big yellow bus to Center #1. Michelle, Elena, Kaitlyn, and I stayed while Beth and Allen headed to Center #2 where another birthday party was held. Allen received beautiful card saying he was a “good man.” How right they are; another candle and song.

Back at Center #1, there was remodeling being done and a new window was being installed. The kitchen called my name with cucumbers to be peeled, onions to be sliced, and dishes to be washed at breakneck speed because the next meal was coming. With those chores completed I helped the “mop lady” sweep until she said “Irene, sit down!”

The day was capped off with a trip to the equator with some fun experiments, pictures, and a wonderful dinner at El Rincón de la Ronda with excellent Ecuadorian food and another cake, song, and hat for Allen.

I was touched to see the trust and joy on the children’s faces during their outdoor activity. My hope is that this trust will not be betrayed in the future. Faith is believing in what you cannot see and hope is in that belief.