Guatemala, October 25th-31st, 2014

Florida Hospital Group & Friends

Today is our last day here at the Center. It has been a wonderful experience! There is something about these children that automatically captures your heart and soul. Their little faces and smiles will forever be in our minds.

This is my first time here in Guatemala, and I have to say I did not know what to expect. I was excited but nervous. Let me tell you, about five minutes into the first day...I was a goner. The smiles of these children and the joy they shine forth is so welcoming and captivating, it is truly amazing.

Children are so special. Jesus mentions children many times in the Bible, especially about how precious they are to Him. He told His disciples, "Let the little children come to Me." These children here in Guatemala are God's precious ones. When I think about that, it humbles me. To think, Jesus has called me here to another country to care for and love HIS beloved! What an honor He has bestowed upon us, to be vessels of love in our Savior's hands. To lavish upon these little ones the love of Christ.

One of the many things that come to mind when I think about the past few days are the smiles! They melt you. And even better, when you receive a smile of recognition. When you have made a connection, a forever friend. Some are more easily given than others but all are so special! The first day we arrived, Monday, a little boy named Daniel arrived. He was very fragile emotionally. Crying as nannies left the room, not wanting to play with other children, and shying away from us gringos. On Wednesday, a breakthrough was made. God gave me the opportunity to enter into his suffering and love on him. We took a stroll around the room hand in hand, kicking the soccer ball to keep our mind off of missing his mommy and daddy. Then we sat on the mat with the other dolphins, Daniel in my lap. Glancing at toys, picking one up occasionally and snuggling! Many hugs, bounces and pats on the back later he was asleep with his little head on my shoulder. Later on that day I even got a smile and some laughter out of him! That was the highlight of my week, to enter into his world and give him rest. While on a different scale, this is what Jesus has done for me! He has entered into my world and given me love and peace and rest in His embrace.He is such a gracious God!

I could go on and on about these children, but I will end with this verse,"He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8)

Give thanks to Jesus for all He has done!

Guatemala, October 25th-31st, 2014

Florida Hospital Group & Friends

Today, we experienced God's miracles in many ways; from as creative and simple as new stool so the boys can reach the sinks...to Jorge's first steps with a walker made of PVC pipe. Year after blessed year, God never ceases to amaze me with the mighty work he does here in Guatemala.

A very special surprise for the children today---A BOUNCE HOUSE! The team pooled our money and put together a wonderful fair for the children. The used their pretend "dinero" to purchase entrance to the bounce house, play fair games, and fill their hands and faces with superhero and princess tattoos!

In addition, we had a special visitor for Marquita. Alex came by for a short but sweet visit. It was so cool to see him recognize Marquita. He enjoyed a quick trip to the fair where he won a prize and lots of kisses.

We also watched God's miracles through Kaci and Cari while they delivered therapies, evaluated children, and taught the nannies about the importance of "tummy time" and various activities and ways to engage the children in speaking.

In short, being at the Malnutrition Center is like being in continual prayer. Continual prayer that offers peace, hope, harmony, laughter, tears, love and learning.

Thank you Jesus for another incredible day in prayer. 

Guatemala, October 25th-31st, 2014

Florida Hospital Group & Friends

Hola from Guatemala!

Today was a fun filled day at the center! The Chicks and Bunnies were on the move -literally! We exercised and danced though the morning and spent our afternoon outside doing arts and crafts. Jorge and Gustavo really enjoyed playing with the "crazy paste" (corn starch + water), they made quite a mess but it was all worth it to see their smiling and laughing faces.

We finished off our morning with a music session outside on the playground.  The kids loved playing with the maracas and flutes - especially Kimberly! 

While we were outside Jorge, Elsar, and Marvin found a caterpillar on the slide. 

The three boys were fascinated by their new playground friend; they sat and watched the caterpillar crawl around until it was time for lunch.

Gustavo was so exhausted from his busy morning that he fell asleep during lunchtime - we know how you feel, buddy!

Today was a great day. Tune in tomorrow for more updates! 

Guatemala, October 25th-31st, 2014

Florida Hospital Group & Friends

Greetings from San Juan! Our group visiting the Malnutrition Center this week is very diverse and brings love and experience from all over the country. We have representatives from Florida Hospital in Orlando, Bay Community Church in Miami and team members from Kentucky and Maine.

Today we arrived at the center and, as we pulled up, there was applause and lots of excitement! Everyone was eager to meet all of the children. As we entered each room, there were many hugs and big smiles. The Canaries, Dolphins, Chicks, Squirrels and Ducks are the reason we came--and to see their sweet faces brought immediate joy!

As we work with the children this week we hope to help them with their physical therapy, nutrition, walking, communicating and just having lots of good ol' fun. Our prayer is that The Lord would use us for each child and that they would feel Christ's love in a mighty way.

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14