Balloon Day!

Today was so much fun at VBS. We started our day a little bit earlier, around 7 am trying to get 4 teenage boys out of bed. I will admit that the boys and I are definitely getting to know each other pretty well, and of course having fun. At night we somehow have learned to share a small bathroom with a pedestal sink and a toilet. I've left behind 4 small children to now have 4 big boys, (Nate now has 3 big brothers). Thankfully I am okay without makeup and a curly hairdo which takes no time at all (if only I could do this back home).
Well, the boys started their day first with pancakes and then on to filling water balloons for VBS. They had filled half of them the night before in the rain storm, which half of the time was a water balloon fight with Dixie's two sons. After we had collected our balloons, 4 trays of red finger jello, and other supplies we were on our way to the Toddler House. The story today was about the blood of Jesus, and how He washes away all of our sins. The kids are beginning to catch onto the motions to songs and try to remember some of the words. It is fun to see them "clap their hands" and "stomp their feet" and "shout AMEN!" all with big eyes and a bright smile. They decorated crosses and ate their jello along with some string licorice, yesterday was frosted cupcakes. We were told that they get a special treat on their birthday, so these snacks are a new experience for them. Even the nannies eat the snacks and kind of look in wonder as they taste it. If you think about it, the texture and taste of jello is unique, and it was cold. The kids are encouraged to memorize a bible verse, and if they know it they receive a piece of candy which they love. 4 knew it today, and 4 nannies were very happy to recite it also. Of course they were given candy too, perhaps they ate it or maybe saved it for their own child at home. It's amazing how many things we take for granted.
Finally, at the end we played a game with the water balloons. First a relay where they brought their balloon to a bucket of water and ran back to their team. Some were so careful, it was adorable, and some, running as fast as they could in flip flops, oh mercy, none fell. I must share that many of you have told me who you would be praying for, and it is so cool to see them running around having a blast, to some I have tried to explain that someone is praying for them. Well, back to the balloons, it was incredible fun! We started tossing them with a partner and then certain individuals whom I will not name, 3 boys - 1 stayed home to rest, began tossing them at other team members. So as you can guess WE ALL - the team, kids, nannies, directors had a huge water balloon fight. Envision children laughing and getting wet, which felt great in the heat, nannies trying to get eachother wet too, it was wonderful. I can't wait for tomorrow. We have 12 disciple sock puppets who will make their big debut performance. It is so special being part of this team, for the parents of the teens here, you have awesome kids. Until tomorrow, God's blessings to you all! Lori