Unforgettable Memories

Yesterday was the last day for our small team. We visited an orphanage in Managua called Vida Nueva Nicaragua, or New Life Nicaragua. This is a place where children who have been abused, neglected, malnourished, and abandoned come to start over. There were a few babies and about ten kids ages 3-5. It was fun playing with the kids there, but some of their stories are just heartbreaking. Tristan, Emily, and Jennifer raised money back in the States before they came to buy formula to help out.  

Though these kids had a rough time before, they were all smiles. 

Lunch time! 

Jennifer planned for us to have lunch with Tim and Chris, who started this orphanage after they moved to Nicaragua thirteen years ago. We ate at this small restaurant here in Managua called Chik Chak. While we ate some delicious food we got to hear their story of how they came to Nicaragua. It's very inspiring hearing stories of how people became missionaries, and we had two great couples who gladly shared theirs with us. 

We sat and talked for a while until it was time for them to leave. The four of us decided we would spend some time in El Cañon to finish our day. As always, it was great to see all the kids and we had a blast. I saw one little boy, Christopher, who I met over two years ago. I'm sure he didn't remember me, but it was nice to see him and meet some new little ones.

This is Christopher holding a bird he caught. He looks the exact same as I remember him, just taller:) 

Emily, Tristan, and Mildred. She was a little firecracker!

He wanted to try on Emily's sunglasses. 

This little boy was THE most precious thing! 

It was really sad leaving all those kids, but we all enjoyed the time we got to spend with them. Even the kids at Vida Nueva weren't easy to leave. Whether it's an hour or a whole day spent with any of them, it's never easy. I guess I will just have to adopt them all. What do you think mom and dad?? 

Our last night was spent unwinding from the week. Jennifer left early this morning, and Tristan and Emily left at noon. We all had such a great time working together and building friendships. It was definitely a wonderful team and we made so many memories:) 

Today, after they all left, it was time to prepare for the next team. A few of us from the mission house went grocery shopping and it took us a long time to buy everything and get it all back to the house. Not much else has gone on today, but we will be very busy when our next team arrives. I can't wait to see what God has planned for us this next week!