Today was our third day building houses in the village. It's definitely been an awesome and unforgettable experience. I've been to Guatemala once before about 7 years ago, but I was sick for a good portion of the trip and didn't get to participate in the building. I love going back into the village and back to the houses we've been working on and seeing the familiar, smiling faces of the kids. Learning the kids names and connecting with them over several days has been the best part for me. And really the only downer I've experienced on this trip so far was getting stung by some big wasp and watching my left arm swell up like a balloon, but it was nothing the Benadryl couldn't fix. 

-Brandon Ebenstein

Linda's devotions this morning mentioned of how He can give us more than we can ask or imagine, little did I know what prayers would be answered.  Being among those in the village and working hard is something that is very enjoyable for me and who could say no to playing to little kids.  So when my driver, Mark, was announced as the van going to the orphanage I knew I found reassurance of where I needed to be.  Strings pulling at the heart can only mean a day at the orphanage.  A group of us had the pleasure of helping 'Love the Child' do some painting and brightening up of their playground backdrop which was more of a blessing for us.  It's truly is an amazing sight to see how children are brought in and cared for, knowing they're in protective loving hands and that they have more of a fighting chance for the future shows us of God's plan for each of us.  Just being a part of this endeavor is something I cherish.  To add to awe of His work, we then ventured to distribution where we received 150 families.  Stirring memories of the year before when the smallest of ladies grabbed on for what seemed like the longest hug I have ever encountered, I couldn't help to feel her love and thankfulness overwhelm my mind, heart and soul.  I am reminded this day and week of how very busy I tend to be and the need to slow down to see His work and all His people.  Making the time to realign my priorities and really focus on what He has intended me to do and be.  Again this year has brought me closer to some of the strangers I met only a few short years ago, built some new relationships and easily create new memories of service and love.  Thankful for all the prayers of health and safety for us here and a protective blanket wrapped around our family who enabled us to come.

Blessed beyond belief,

Ed Taylor Jr