Update...

Last week we had a group of Americans here doing an English Bible Camp for kids in the village and in Poprad. There were about 60 kids that came each day from about 4 years old to about 16 years old. I was the “translator” (in no way am I a translator, but I did the best I could!) for one of the classes of 7-10 year olds. It was a lot of fun, and my class was so wonderful. I will write more about the camp in my newsletter, but overall it was a crazy week that went by so fast. I kept really busy with the camp, helping in the kitchen, and doing activities with the guys in the evenings. Friday I went back to Horna Micina to say a final goodbye to everyone there. It was nice to spend time talking with Dano and Marcela, and to play with Danko. Saturday I came back here and Kristen and I spent our night baking chocolate chip cookies for all the guys. Sunday we had a going away party and we gave everyone cookies which they really enjoyed. The party was really nice and I enjoyed having everyone together talking and playing outside. All the workers and guys signed a big Slovak flag as a going away present, and it is so nice!

The week went by fairly quickily because of packing and last minute things I was doing. Also, Monday was Kristen's birthday and Tuesday was my birthday so we had some nice celebrations for that. Here when it is your birthday people shake your hand, give you a birthday wish, a hug, and usually some type of chocolate or candy. It is interesting how they shake hands and say something like "I wish you all of the best, a year of health and happiness and may God bless you in everything..." It was really nice when the guys did this and told me they were glad I was here, thanked me, and wished me the best as I go back home.

This afternoon I said my final good byes and I am now in Bratislava until early tomorrow morning when I fly out. It was really sad leaving, but in some ways I feel like it hasn't actually hit me that I left and will not be back in a couple of days or next week. I really got accustomed to life there and loved it. I am so excited to see my family and friends and to just be home, but I know it will be difficult. I can't really put anymore thoughts down now- they are all just crazy in my head, so I will save it for later. Now, for a laught...this is Kristen and I sad to leave: