Kombolcha

I cannot believe we are home!  A week ago today we were handing out care packages to children at Grace Baptist Church in Kombolcha.  The children were so excited to see us, spend time with us, to "talk" to us. 
There were several things we noticed about the children.  First, they were delighted to see us.  They wanted hugs, they wanted to touch us, they wanted to connect with us. 

They loved playing with the jump ropes and soccer balls we brought. Thank you sponsor families who helped purchase these items!!

We had a wonderful time with the children.
As we spent time with the children we noticed that underneath the joy, there was a need for some basic items:
proper footwear

and proper clothing:

Our current fundraising event is with Sami- her blog is little goody2-shoes.  Sami has raised half the amount needed for the 175 children in the sponsorship program.  She is 12 years old and making a HUGE impact.  Check out her blog and her necklaces!  She's currently hosting a giveaway- it's free to enter. 

Kombolcha

We have returned from Kombolcha.  We had a great trip.
We were able to appreciate the breathtaking views as we crossed over the mountains.

When we arrived at the church  we were greeted by 300 children.  Hundreds of little hands extended to shake our hands.  "Hello.  What is your name?"  That's it, that's all the English they know.  They had been practicing in anticipation of arrival!  So, after hundreds of handshakes and saying, "My name is Candy," we were able to pass out jump ropes and the soccer balls.  the children were so excited!!

The next day we handed out care packages!  I have pictures of each child receiving their care package.  They were so excited to receive cards and pictures.  They loved the stickers.  They also loved putting them all over their faces.   When we return I will send you photos of your sponsor child.