*So sorry for the mega late blog post! Wifi has been hard to find. This is just a quick update and recap of the past two weeks. I will try and post more details and stories soon! :) 

Wow!! The past two weeks have gone by so fast! It feels like yesterday I was on my way to training camp full of excitement and anxious nerves. Though all my worries, doubts, and fears were quickly silenced when I met my dream team of 14! I had been praying for strong unity within our squad which became an answer to prayer within the first few days of getting to know everyone. My team is made up of the most wonderful humans ever plus two incredible leaders! 

Here is a group picture minus our leaders: ____________________________________

After the first day of getting settled in, blowing up sleeping mats, and playing introductory card games we dove right into multiple sessions of speakers, activities, worship, and more group bonding time. We had World Race alumni, mentors, and even a speaker from South Africa pour into our lives and prepare us for the journey ahead. Between teachings we would have walk o’clock and basketball knockout games. Before we knew it we were packed up and headed for Costa Rica! 

A sleepless night in the Atlanta airport, two flights, and a four hour bus ride later we made it! We spent a total 24 hours traveling to get to a cute little town 20 minutes outside of Nicoya Costa Rica. Our host, Pastor Bacillio and his family, welcomed us with a homemade meal and a colorful welcome sign on the church stage. 

Our first few days were spent resting, going into town to explore, and taking walks throughout the neighborhood.  We started ministry in the form of physical labor and construction projects. Nicoya is on the western side of Costa Rica and has a more dry, sub-tropical climate instead of the typical rainforest region common in this country, so it’s been pretty hot. I spent most of this week helping instal a septic tank for the next door neighbors and building an additional bathroom to their home. 

Next week we will start more evangelical/ outreach ministries in other communities! 

Please pray for continued health and healing for my team. We have had a few incidents, nothing too major. I also ask that you would pray for guidance and boldness in Christ as we go out into these communities to share His good news! 

Te amo mi amigos! 

Lucy :)