Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Day 2 in the Books!



Well, day 2 has come to a close. Yesterday was a hectic day filled with meeting new people, the interns, staff, and leadership summit coaches. Driving for what seemed like hours to Qwa Qwa, we made it to a Junior Secondary school(basically a middle school). We were able to sit in on a meeting with the leadership summit coaches, and then we observed a graduation celebration for the students (picture left). After our long day at the school, which was difficult because of the jet lag that was leaving me falling asleep standing up, we went to grab a bite to eat at this little restaurant called "KFC," maybe you've heard of it? We then headed back to base for a dinner and hangout time with the interns and mission team from Maryland. We had a great time chating with some of the interns and folks from the mission team. We then headed down to Neil's, Thrive founder, home. We were getting together with some staff members for a private viewing of this weeks NASCAR race, oh yeah baby!!! Today we met with Neil to plan out and discuss what we will be doing during our time with Thrive. After our very quick meeting, we went and rounded up the interns and headed out to the "Steer" (like a McDonalds, but a little nicer). We had a meeting with all the interns. Later on we came back to the base and started our daily projects; some of the interns worked in their area of expertise while the others came with Lauren and I to work on relocating some dishes on the property. We also went on an impromptu safari on the property to see the Zebra (right). We had a great opportunity to talk with the interns and really get to know them a bit. I am really excited because nearly all of them are "Office" fans, so we are planning an "Office Party" this weekend. Tonight we had a Braai with the staff to celebrate the birth of Jen, it was awesome; we had steak, chicken, and pork chops, yummy!!! Tomorrow we have another busy day planned and we hope to get a video up online soon, so keep checking in. Please continue to pray for Thrive and the ministries they are involved in, these days are busy and lots of stress is being felt by all. Thank you to all who have sent e-mails and posted, it has been so nice to get to read your thoughts, keep 'em coming! Love you all.

8 comments:

BJ said...

I'm so happy that the both of you are adjusting to your new mission. Your schedule is full of caring people who share the same warmth for human nature. The pictures are truly breathtaking, and we love the return emails. We love you both so very much!!!! Dad

Soon to be Hyland's said...

Yea.....i love to hear that there is a KFC. I mean, everyone needs a little chicken in their lives. As for "The Office"....that is AWESOME!!!! It sounds so exciting. I beet the Safari was fun. I hope you guys are doing well and i am busy here passing out your letters to people that will donate. I love you both so very much. I will keep you in my prayers. God Bless!

Jim Collins said...

It is interesting how different the first few days of your journey are from Sarah & Casey's. Hopefully they will give you some time to settle in and develop relationships with the interns and other staff. It is so important that you get a good sense of who the people you will be with are. I know God is active daily in both your lives and He knows what is best for you both. All my love to you both! Dad

Ragamuffin said...

hey friends! I am so excited to see you guys jumping in and getting your feet wet already! We are praying for you both and we love you - Lauren, dont forget the common bond! :) God is good. Always praying,
Leah

Anonymous said...

Hi Tre and Lauren,
This is Aunt Tish and the kids. We love reading your blog and seeing the pictures. We can't wait to see what adventures are coming your way. Love always,
The Dorman Bunch

Dawgfan said...

Hey guys! I justed wanted to let you know that you guys are missed! Oh and we lost to Enterprise this week but only 12-7 :) Praying for you!!
Tasha

Ralph & Bonnie Rickly said...

Dear Tre & Lauren, We are so glad your internship is starting out so well. We are so happy for you and we know you are having a real adventure. We didn't make it to our first week in Costa Rica because Aunt Bonnie ended up in the ER the night we were supposed to leave. Nothing really serious, just annoying. Can't wait to hear more and see more photos of the people, the wildlife and you in your hut! Love,Uncle Ralph & Aunt Bonnie

Anonymous said...

Hey guys, Its Kaleigh. Thanks for keeping us updated! Im sorry to hear bout the below freezing weather, it is so funny to hear because it got up to i think 93 here. Anywayz, i love and miss you both, see you in August, Kaleigh