Going Out with a Bang!

Today was our last day in Mansa and we enjoyed every minute with the children. After we entertained the children with our reprise of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" (complete with costumes and dance moves), we had many activities for the kids to enjoy:

• Water balloon toss and water balloon slingshots and outdoor games (Lisa, Norm, John, Pam, and Tom)
• Dancing and singing with Terry Turner, Rob and Rachel (and the teenagers taught them some moves too)
• Crafts with Amy, Terry Townsend and Sam

We also finished distributing the last pair of shoes - Huuray! At lunch each child got a cookie and we had exactly enough for all 95! After lunch we distributed the goodie bags that we brought that had sunglasses, visors, bubble, a beach ball, soap and candy. You cannot imagine how excited all of the kids were (even the teenagers) to get toys that most US kids would turn up their noses at. They were jumping up and down and had smiles from ear to ear.

We quickly went from joy to sadness as we had to say goodbye to our new friends. Each of the team has connected with several of the kids on an individual basis and it was hard to say goodbye. I will miss their joyous spirits that are expressed in heartfelt song and dance, I will miss their shy smiles, I will miss their sincere gratitude for the smallest of kindnesses, I will miss the simplicity and purity of their faith, and I will miss the love and acceptance that they have given all of us.