Merry Christmas from Marissa

It is the end of our first day back at New Life and it feels like I'm back home. I am falling in love with this place and these kids all over again. I can't even describe the feeling I had when I ran (yes, I actually ran) over to the kids and they remembered me by  name. From the second I hugged each one of them hello, I was already dreading the moment I am going to have to say goodbye again. But, it's only Tuesday so I have a few more days before I have to worry about that:).

I had to keep reminding myself today that it is Christmas because I'm not used to spending it in 80-90 degree weather and without snow. But I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day, and a Christmas I will remember forever. This morning, all the kids at New Life gathered in the church and were each given an individual present by a couple staying here who purchased all of them. Each child's face, whether they were in diapers or 16 years old, lit up when they received their present.

Shortly after the New Life kids opened presents, another orphanage arrived for a Christmas lunch and fun activities to do all day. They were all so thankful, and most of the children were so skinny that I am glad New Life was able to provide them with a good meal. Each of those children were also given a Christmas gift. The amazing thing is that you could've given those kids any kind of gift, and they still would have appreciated it.

I don't know exactly what it is, but I am so happy when I am at New Life. I know part of it could be that I absolutely love kids, but there is something so special about the children and the people here. Even in a country where there is so much hunger and suffering, the faith of the people who I have met is unwavering. They thank God for everything, which has made me realize how much more I need to be thanking Him for every day. Tonight we were all given ice cream, and Sophie put her hands up and thanked God the second she finished her cup. I can honestly say that I have fallen in love with many of these children and I know God has put me here again, only six months later, for a reason.

(And mom, I didn't get sick! Love you so much and Merry Christmas!)