Happy Birthday Lydia... Filipino-style

Celebrating birthdays are very special. It is even more special to see someone so humble about giving up their birthday to help others. Lydia was blown away when she woke to hear the sweet, sweet lulls of our fellow workers at the children's home singing to her, from the other side of her door. They woke up extra early (4:30 AM) to sing praise songs to her, ending in Happy Birthday. Her face was priceless! Even though she was unable to spend her birthday with family at home, the Filipinos weren't about to leave her hanging. It is a gift she will always remember & cherish. 

Thank you Lord for nationals you put in our lives to remind us we are part of a larger family.

Daily life pics from Mindanao Nannies

Eating durian

A fruit we were warned about- durian. You know that saying that curiosity almost killed the cat...well, it almost happened.

We have set quite a few challenges for ourselves to keep things interesting. This one is pretty funny. Sometimes while visiting places away from the children's home we have to find a place to brush our teeth. (Example: random corn field.)

Although many Nehemiah Teams live in rural situations... that is not the case with us. This is a picture of our first "real" rough sleeping. Bamboo floors straw walls and mosquito nets. A experience that will last a life time.

Encourage one another...

We were able to attend a small Bible study held in the back of a shop. The hearts these people had for the Lord was touching. They opened the stage for the birthday girl to preach the sermon and they also taught us a few new songs. Pray that we will be an encouragement to this group of believers.

Hillside

We were welcomed with open arms this past weekend. They introduced us to many new things and encouraged us so much. In the US your first initial thought of someone staring is that they are being rude, but that is definitely not the case here. Throughout the sermon the children, whom probably have not seen many Americans, were snapping pictures constantly. They were treating us like celebrities. When they camera came out both young and old jumped up for a picture.  Pray for the continued growth of the believers in this local church.

Bible Study Growth

Our Bible studies are slowly beginning to grow. God is showing us all more and more how to lead. Stepping away from our comfort zones and seeing the effects of our obedience.

Pray for the continued growth of those we are studying with.

Helping the local church

We were able to do door-to-door evangelism, ending in the village church. One thing we all have learned is Filipino children LOVE to take pictures... with you, selfies, even random objects. Makes our souls giggle.

Outdoor Fun with Mindanao Nannies

Spending time doing sports ministry in a local village. They are 100% supportive even when they realize we aren't good at sports.

Enjoying God's creation at a local zipline.
 

Investing in the local economy

Bukidnon Handicraft, Philippines

Everyone has a story and reasoning behind what they do. We are standing in a bag shop with Tita Pearl. She has a heart for the unbelievers also. She sells these beautifully handcrafted bags so that she is able to help support the mountain people. We all purchased a bag and on the back of each one it has a little story about the people. 

This product is made out of abaca fibers locally known in Bukidnon as "hinabol". It is the residents of the mountains in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, Philippines who have intricately hand-woven this product. 

 
We are pleased to inform you that you have just helped these people earn a living simply by purchasing this product.

They are thankful for the tourists that come in and help support the people.

Please pray for Tita, she is looking for ways to expand her business and continue to provide ways to support the women that create these beautiful things.