This is Emily reporting from Balti, Moldova...

Well, so much to say, so little time in the internet cafe. First, let me say God has been good..so good. It has been so evident that Jesus has prepared our way. I'm sure you've read about that in the other blogs. We have had obstacles - what else is new - but the team has a great attitude and we are bending (not breaking) with every trial that comes our way. Today was the first official day of camp. Just like yesterday, it rained. For those of you who don't know the Falesti camp is called "Dirt Camp". Dirt Camp+Rain="Mud Camp". Oh the joy! :) But it's been nice and cool, which I am thankful for. We have had to readjust our plans because many of the acitivities require being outside. But then you feel arms wrap around your waist and you look down into the face of a broken and dirty child. They smile at you and you realize you're looking into the face of your Savior. It's a powerful thing. And somehow you don't care about the rain or the changed plans. Meredith, Jura is here (and Irina and Vova) from the handicapped orphanage. I have given many special hugs to Jura. Today, a couple bulleys were messing with him. Jen and I of course reprimanded them. A few mintues later (while Jen was talking to one of the bulleys), the bulley's shoe fell off into the mud. Jura walked up, picked up the kids shoe, and handed it to him. That's a picture of Jesus if I've ever seen one. Jura sits around camp, reading his bible. I looked over one time and it was upside down, but I have a feeling he was getting something out of it anyway. It is so good to see him.

One major piece of news...my Mihai is not here. I thought he would be and found out he wasn't when I got here Saturday ngiht. :( Apparently he is with a family in a village near Drochia. He was here a couple weeks ago when another team was here, but they sent him back once the team left. He MIGHT come tomorrow - on the bread truck that comes every day. I certainly hope so. I have been very sad about this, so please pray that he will come tomorrow. On the other hand I know God has a perfect plan and purpose for this trip, and I am getting to spend lots of precious time with new kids that I might not have met if Mihai was here. I've spent a LOT of time with some of my friend's sponsored kids like Angela, Aliona, Vasile. I spend most of my time walking around camp, trying to bond with the kids that are by themselves or not participating.

One kid's name is Jura (different than the one I mentioned before). The teachers told me he's no good..causes trouble. But I find him quite adorable and am determined to love him this week. He has definitely opened up to me and seems to always be at my side. He meets me at the van in the morning and walks me to the van when we leave. It's amazing how love - unconditional - can melt the coldest heart. We're all doing really well. Everyone is healthy, getting along great.

Oh...I almost forgot. The sunflowers are in bloom! I missed them last summer (I was here in June). But they are in full bloom. It's one of the most amazing things I've EVER seen. It's literally a field of gold. Sunflowers as far as the eye can see. When you're driving in this amazing countryside, you forget you're in a third world country. The landscape is so beautiful and fertile. I wish you all could see it for yourself. A picture does not do it justice. Maybe some of you WILL see it someday! ;) Thank you all so much for your prayers. Keep it up. Stay tuned and love to all...E