Friday, May 7, 2010

On the Road Again

In early April, we set out as a family for the small village of Mesang. Ryan usually travels there once a month to touch base with John and Debbie Coats' staff while they are in the U.S., but we decided to go out as a family this time. "It's kind of like going camping!" Juliana said, commenting on the rustic setting as compared to Phnom Penh. Indeed the trip was a fun adventure. As we traveled we listened to children's tapes and counted Caterpillar machinery along side the main road that is being repaired. At one point Juliana commented, "I know why we're going to Mesang. We're going to tell other people about God's love!" We then had a brief, but meaningful discussion about different ways we can show people God's love. It's great to know that Juliana is picking up the importance of receiving and sharing God's love.
Activities included a Bible study with the Coats' staff, visiting some of the staff at their houses, and a children's program/party. Following are a couple pics of the trip...

Our tiny van on a small road with dry rice fields on either side.

Water buffalo on the side road. A common sight during travel in Cambodia.

Afternoon rest time on the porch of the house we stayed at.

An after-lunch picture with friends

We attended a Christian children's program one morning. Here the children are singing songs. Fun activities at the program included hitting a clay pot while blindfolded.
We were grateful for the opportunity to connect to people who are so special to John and Debbie and experience rural life together as a family.
-Ryan