How we spent our Saturday

Today is Saturday, our last day of official service and work. After breakfast the work team rode to the school site for a half-day of final preparations for the dedication at 5 p.m. Several did electrical work to install florescent lights, while others cleaned up the work site and dismantled the ramps. The whole work crew (local and US) exchanged gifts and took several group photos, which we'll try to post soon.
Women from Los Olivos joined our VBS and women's ministry groups for a picnic. They left in the morning for a miles-long hike up a small mountain trail to a small park. The Guatemalans brought a pinata and led the group in several games. The group returned at about 2:30, tired but thrilled with the time they had together.
After a few hours rest, we are headed to the school for a dedication with local parents, children, teachers, and school officials. We want to let those of you who gave toward either school materials or the "buy a brick" fund drive know that your money will be well spent. We have given all of it toward materials for the school, as well as for any desks, white/chalk boards, or other things they may need. The teacher and principal we talked to were very appreciative.
One thing we learned earlier this week is that the new president of Guatemala recently declared that all children must go to school. Used to be that school cost about $2 per child, plus uniform. Many parents could not afford this, so not all children attended school. Recently, the president of Guatemala declared that all children should attend school, free from cost to parents. The result is that in Sumpango alone, they expect attendance at the school (compound) to jump by about 250 students. The government is starting another two-classroom building near the one we are completing. It still may not provide enough room for all the kids.
Tomorrow we are headed to Antigua for a day of rest and sightseeing. We will attend church at Los Olivos in the evening. Will give a final report on that day after we return on Monday.
Thanks for your prayers!