DR so far....

Hi from the Dominican Republic!! Sam and I are here for almost 3 weeks with Michael. We decided not to lead any youth group mission trips this summer since we wanted to take Michael with us. We're just here spending time with pastors and friends that we have met in years past. It's actually so great because we can focus on building relationships and getting Michael used to the culture (and the temperatures...ahhh!!)

We flew in 2 days ago to Santo Domingo (the capital city) and stayed in a hotel downtown. Our room had a spectacular view overlooking the ocean. We're not at a beach, so it's rocky ocean, but still so beautiful. We went out that night and had some tacos (leave it to me to find Mexican food in a Caribbean country) and people-watched in this plaza where people love to hang out on a Sunday night. We had live music from a Bachata band and watched the children riding around in their PowerWheels. Sam also got to catch a little of the US Open.

The next morning we were able to spend some time in the pool on the roof, but the rain quickly moved us out. It continued to rain for the next few hours while we drove our rental car up to Moca. It was about a 3 hour drive and it rained the whole entire time! We made it to Moca, however, and we are now staying in Pastora Quina's house. She is a woman pastor that we have worked with in the past and we just love her. She is so hospitable and welcoming. We're staying in her house and she is feeding us for the next 3 days. We will be visiting her churches (she has four) and visiting with people and loving on them. We're really looking forward to it.

Michael has been doing very well. I'm not sure if he realizes he's not in America anymore. He's been his usual self....jumping off of things, doing 180's in the air, playing with a ball, etc. He's eating the food pretty well, too! We did bring some oatmeal and mac and cheese just in case we need it in the future!

Please pray for us if you get a chance. Pray for health and safety for Michael especially. Also pray that God will give us opportunities to love on people, encourage people, and share the Gospel as a family.

We leave for another city on Thursday. I will try to have some pictures to post soon!