When recovering from traveling it is always nice to sleep but when you've  been up over 26 hours...you don't care where it is...you just have to lie down. Our team got some much needed rest Friday night, even though is was just 3 to 4 hours. Everyone of team did an outstanding job of getting up and going at 4:00 am yesterday to make sure we were the first ones on the bus to the airport. I'm glad we were too! With all our luggage crammed into the back of city bus with 15 of us Americans...what a sight having us and over 35 pieces of luggage crammed into the back of the bus!!! Did I mention that when we woke up it was pouring rain! The Lord even took care of that as He stopped the rain as we walked to the bus stop and waited. In one stretch of our walking it was in a outdoor, covered shops. As we walked by there were several homes men sleeping in cardboard boxes. This was another reminder to me of how God has once again greatly blessed me and each of our team members.

Praise the Lord for allowing us to get our tickets, check our baggage, go through security and board our planes on time! The first group was a little rushed but made their 6:30 flight with ease. The remaining 9 of us ate a little bit of breakfast and our flight left at 8:00. When we arrived , we went downstairs and waited for our luggage. Jessica Sadowitz, our missionaries oldest daughter hide in the corner so as not to be seen through the glass doors by her father-who had NO idea she was coming! As we got all our luggage...praise You Lord!...all for us all headed out to see Chris and the first crew. After a nice welcome, we prepared for a group picture. With Chris's back turned, Jessica sneaks in behind her father and says "Hi Daddy!" Chris turns after hearing that familiar voice with mouth open wide and an expression of disbelief. No words, just a big embrace and tears...all of us were in tears! Chris had NO idea and all he could say was "Thank You Lord, praise You Lord!" I know it will be a highlight of our trip! As a father myself, I am overwhelmed with emotions that come to mind as I think of reuniting with one of my children after a long absence! What a joy!

Part two coming...the all-you-can-eat-buffet for lunch!
PA