Mas Y Mas Aun

What a jammed packed weekend it was! It just seems like each week that goes by ends up being better than the previous one. I am so blessed to be here. Sure, I've got those days when I'd like to be back home with family and friends who understand me. But I also know how much of an experience this is for me, as well as the people I am here to serve. The Lord has been so faithful to me. I do not expect anything less than His good, perfect, and pleasing will. And the days that are harder, well I am growing closer to the Lord; leaning on Him for all comfort, wisdom, and understanding. I am having so many fun and exciting experiences here, and I know it is because God is answering the prayers of many entering His presence on my behalf.

The weekend with my family was just too short! I am so glad they came down, though, and met more of the people I've come to love. We had a birthday party on Saturday night for my mom, and it just couldn't have been any more perfect than it was! Below are a few pictures from the night:

(Mom, Sarai, Daphne, Karina, and Me)

(Dad and Mom with their "song" in the background)

(Almanza family together again!)

The young people here of the church are so much fun to hang out with. Maybe you're wondering what they are like? Well, for one, they love the Lord. From an early age, they are taught to write scripture on their heart, and starting from age 2, they already have about 10 verses memorized. They also love telling jokes! I usually understand the whole joke up until the punch line -- and I never understand that. Most of the time, the punch line is a play on words type of thing, so that is probably why I don't understand it. The youth really love to come over and play the Wii, but they also love playing outdoors! Every Sunday evening after church we play volleyball outside one of the church buildings with another youth group here in town. Usually the loser buys the soda at the end of the night. We also had a really interesting Sunday morning bible class with the youth. Brother Jose Luis led a class on divorce, and it was the first time the kids had really spoken out and asked questions. The class continues this next Sunday, and I'm really interested to hear some more comments from the young people. 

I'm so glad I finally finished this post. I was really struggling with what to write about. If you have any suggestions or ideas, let me know. I want to share stories that YOU are interested in. 

Be strong in the Lord,

Rachel