Part 2

I had started part 1 a few days ago and actually finished it yesterday but never got around to publishing the post...so today will be a continuation.

I arrived in Pittsburg on a Monday, Obi's Birthday to be exact. And I went to chapel Tuesday morning. It was so good to see all of the kids, most of them didn't know I was back so it was quite a surprise for them. I received lots of hugs and told them how much I had truly missed them! As I was talking to Mr. Gray, Mercedes came up from behind me and just stared at me, as if I wasn't real. Mr. Gray chuckled and said, she's really here, you're eyes aren't lying to you. She gave me a huge hug and didn't leave my side the rest of chapel. I think I was the closest thing to Aeriole she could relate to. She even told me that I reminded her of her sister...she really misses Aeriole! Since then, everytime she sees me she comes and gives me a huge hug and tells me something about England or Aeriole :)

I have enjoyed being with the kids immensely, they bring so much life to this world. I was in the 6th grade the other day and it has 6 boys. I think there teacher was a bit worried about how they would behave for me so she left plenty for them to do, but I had a great time with them. We even skyped my sister, who was their preschool teacher, they all still remember her and love seeing her and her kids. When I was with the 5th grade we skyped Aeriole, which was really special because her brother is in 5th grade.

Last night we had a fantastic youth group! Well, we always have a fantastic youth group, but we had an awesome time together. Obi and Andrea were having family time with Micah and Sarah, so Christian and I hung out with the kids at my parents. I remebered years ago Doug saying the most important thing is to get these kids in the presence of God. So Christian and I decided to do just that. We told them we don't care what you do on the outside as long as you touch God on the inside. Christian and I both shared some thoughts from the Bible then turned on some worship music and for the next hour and a half worshipped Jesus then prayed together. I loved seeing their responses, they are hungry for more of Jesus and He was with us. Some walked around, some kinda lounged in their chairs, one found a corner and was almost hidden, but ALL touched God. His presence was here and you could here their hearts in there prayers. Some shared things God had shown them and others brought an encouraging challenge to their peers.