Village Visit

Yesterday we spent the day visiting our Bugkalot partners in the village where they live. Some of the roads getting there are pretty narrow.  I (Jen) actually ended up driving in and out of here a couple times yesterday (long story), and I was so thankful that we didn't meet any oncoming vehicles and  didn't have to back up long stretches (as Steve has had to before).

 You actually drive to the end of the road, park and then cross a long hanging bridge (didn't take a pic this time since I have previously posted pics of that bridge - here for example) to continue walking the rest of the way. 

 This little house is where some of our tribal partners live.

 Warm smiles always greets us when we arrive.

 Mikayla right away got to work with the girls, plucking leaves off malunggay branches to add to our lunch - one of our favorites! 

Ben helped pump some water from the well.

 We spent most of the day just visiting.  Some strategic discussions, and a lot of just laughing together.

(Notice the Bible verses they have taped to their walls - love it.  Also, you see that colorful valance/decorative curtain over their door?  Made entirely out of used candy wrappers - click on the picture, and you should be able to see a bigger copy.  Ingenious.)

 The kids didn't work the whole day - they had lots of time for hanging out and visiting too.

 Our Bugkalot partners' kids have become our kids' best friends here, and they have a lot of fun together.

 Everyone got a kick out of the fact that Zach is now taller than our 77 year old partner.

 And a few group pics of the kids with their friends.  We are sure going to miss them while we are in the States this fall!

So very thankful for these wonderful partners in the ministry!