A day at the park

So today was a great day at the park/pool! Because of financial strain, the orphanage cannot afford to hire a vehicle to take them on outings in the community. Having the van here, we are able to accomodate the transportation aspect, making it possible to bring the kids out for some much needed social interaction. Today is Eden's 13th Birthday, Naomi's last day at the Home and with only 4 days until Jalen's Birthday, we have plenty of reasons to have a party! We loaded up the van and brought all the kids and Nannies to a local park to celebrate. We had 26 people in the van! It was actually quite a big park with lots of playground equipment, a large duck pond and two swimming pools, though poorly maintained. We parked by a covered picnic area and chased away all the mangy street dogs. It was so much fun playing in the park with all the kids. We pushed them on the swings and helped them go down the slide. Their little joyful faces were such a beautiful sight! After a while we all suited up and went over to the pool for some swimming. It was fantastic! Cole sure loved the water therapy. He is getting to be a really good swimmer, praise God for that! We don't have to worry about him getting in over his head anymore. After swimming everyone was ready for lunch. Maureen went to pick up the cook and the food! We had hambergers and homemade fries! It was delicious! Steve saw some boys playing soccer with a beat up, half flat ball. He asked them if they would trade him for one of the soccer balls that we brought with us. They were incredulous! Jalen joined in and they played a vigerous game of soccer. We had two piniatas which drew a crowd of local children! Chocolate cake with chocolate, peanut butter, nutella icing (my own secret recipe), mmmmm! After the that we were all pretty tired out! Time to pack eveyone up in the van and head back to the orphanage. A happy day for everyone!