Play Day!

Tuesday was a wonderful day. We got up very early so that we could have as much of the day at the Keys as possible. We loaded up the two open air, outboard motor powered boats and headed down the inlet to the open ocean. The sea was very calm so we had a very smooth ride. It was absolutely beautiful. There were white fluffy clouds in the sky and of course the coastline was a beautiful emerald green. We stopped at a reserve which is on an island along the way to our destination, to pay for our visit to Snake Island in the keys. Off we went again. We arrived to the island and we all piled out. Everything was perfect. White sand, palm trees full of coconuts and of course calm, warm sea water full of God's creation. Kayla gave a small worship and then after prayer everyone lathered up with sunscreen and went off in groups for snorkeling and other activities. Most of the boys stayed on the beach and played with the many Hermit crabs available. The ground literally looked at though it were moving because of the abundance of crabs available to choose from. Several of the kids adopted a hermit crab and placed it in a maze created in the sand. They had races and cheered them on as they climbed through tunnels and other obstacles in the maze. Stories began to come back from the kids as they would come back in from snorkeling about what they saw. Starfish, a sea turtle, a big jelly fish, many different fish, coral, sea anemone and many others. The water was very shallow for quite a way out. Every one had a very relaxing time. We enjoyed a wonderful lunch provided by Colleen, Nicole, and Betty. These ladies have been sacrificing tremendously as they rise early every morning to have a meal prepared for us and then haul food to the work site and of course on a trip to the ocean. They work tirelessly to make sure that our hungry crew is fed well. Two o:clock rolled around and and we had to pull ourselves away and prepare for our nightly meetings. Our visit to the island was a wonderful way to rejuvenate the souls of each missionary here.

We arrived back to the house and those who were involved in VBS quickly cleaned up and headed to the church 20 minuets away. It was Mat Gearing's turn to preach for Vacation Bible School. The topic would be "The Big Flood" He did a wonderful job of it! His audience of 110 children listened as he unfolded the sad story of the sin that abounded in Noah's day. The felts on the felt board displayed visually what Mat shared verbally. The kids seemed to really enjoy the details as they listened intently. Richard asked questions afterward and gave prizes for correct answers. It was a fun night. Mandy DuBose would be up next. Her topic was The Millennium. Our interpreter did not show up and so she had to present without him. She did a wonderful job! She projected her voice and was animated and interesting to listen to. Way to go Mandy! The day was a wonderful relaxing day. Many hearts are being prepared for Christ's soon coming by an army of youth! Please continue to keep us in your prayers.