The alarm clock didn't need to go off, I was too excited. So 5:00 am I was up and sorting through our bags of gifts to organize and prep gifts for our first 30 kids. I tried to be quiet but Scott quickly woke up so we did the project together.
We met our translators in the hotel lobby at 8:00 am. Pastor Marlon from Cerro del Nance (the Compassion project) met us for breakfast so he could lead the way up the mountain. It was a great opportunity to get to know more about Marlin, his family, and the work they are doing in the community.
Then we headed up the mountain. When we arrived, the children were all gathered in the temple waiting for us. They had formed two lines and waved flags as we walked between them. They cheered, I cried.
Then they gave us a few minutes to share a few words. We introduced ourselves, told them that we were very excited to meet them in person and thanked their parents for coming. There was more and I know it sounded good, but its all a big blur. Honestly, it was an overwhelming (in a good way) kind of day.
The children then took the stage and performed a song, all wearing frog hats (adorable!). Each round got faster and faster and they got louder and louder. It was very sweet.
Next a mother stood up to share a few words. It was a tearful and heartfelt moment.
Next we took some time to meet each child. They came up to us while we sat on stage, gave a hug, presented us with a Honduran flag, and then posed for a picture. It was very sweet.
During our hug, one little guy whispered in my ear "you are so beautiful to me"... it was very sweet. When we finished the pic, I gave him a kiss on the cheek and he swooned just a bit. (Melt my heart).
Another little one came running over and jumped into our arms with a powerful hug.
Some shared their frog hats with us, some were shy to approach on their own. It was amazing to see the little and unique personalities come out. Something the pictures just couldn't communicate.
Next we headed outside for a piñata. I got the first swing, followed by Scott and then the children starting with the smallest. Each kiddo got a turn and finally they received their prize. We made sure everyone had a handful before moving back indoors.
Next the pastor took us on a tour of the complex... the school, the medical center, the dining room, offices, etc. It was fun to see in person the buildings we've seen in pictures for years at our church. Remembrance through Hands in Mission has been serving Honduras for more years than I can remember.
After the tour, we played with the kids for a bit. We enjoyed the parachute and balls we had brought and then stepped outside to enjoy the breeze while we kicked some balls around with a few straggling boys.
Next we handed out our gifts to the children as they ate their lunches. Then we enjoyed some chicken soup as well. We spent the time with the Director from another Compassion site where we sponsor just one child. He had brought Angel and his brother up to Del Nance for the day so we enjoyed hearing more about the work he is doing in town.
After lunch, we passed out hugs and good-byes and shared a few more touching conversations with moms of our kiddos. The tears in her eyes only proved that the love a mother has for her child is spoken in a universal language.
We drove back down the crazy bumpy road to return to our hotel but made a quick stop at the grocery store to stock up on bottled water. When we got back to our rooms we both were pretty quiet. There was just so much to digest and try to process.
It wasn't long before I heard Scott snoring on the bed beside me. The day, although short, was very overwhelming and I think we both needed a nap.
