Brandywine Valley Baptist - June 09

Brandywine Valley Baptist

Brandywine arrived late at night on Sunday, so we headed straight to our accommodations in Managua.  The team wanted to spend time with the kids in La Chureca prior to the camp, so the next two days were spent in the dump.  We arrived at the school in time for recess.  In less than a minute, each of the team members had found a kid to talk with or play with.  They seemed to connect immediately with the kids.  Several of the guys watched intently as a group of kids played trumpo (tops) in the dirt at the playground.  That same day, all of the guys picked up trumpos from the market, in hopes of learning  how to play before the kids arrived.

With a roll of plastic and a bunch of nails, the team shared the love of Christ in the dump.  Because of the rainy season, many families have rain water running straight into their houses.  The team was able to help three of these families.  We saw several of kids from the day before, and everyone was really excited to have the kids out for the weekend.  

We finally headed out to Campo Alegria in the middle of the week.  When the kids finally arrived Thursday afternoon, the team was so hyped up that the energy was contagious.  The camp went really well.  Each of the kids wore a hat indicating their group.  The team came prepared with all sorts of activities.  They made silly puddy, tie-die t-shirts, volcanoes, and so much more.  One of the favorites from the weekend was the four way tug of war.  The kids screamed and shouted from the sidelines as their leaders struggled to reach their goals. 

After an incredible four days of camp, the team was ready to relax.  They spent a day on the Pacific Coast, soaking up the sun and playing in the waves.  They explored Granada, one of the oldest towns in Nicaragua.  Volcano Masaya was also on the list, an active volcano that spews sulfur and smoke.  Finally they visited the market in Masaya, a shoppers delight. 

The next week was spent at one of the local schools.  They had a 

few maintenance projects, but more importantly they offered specialized classes and games for the students.  The week wrapped up with a celebration here at Campo Alegria.  Such a celebration called for a Campo Alegria special, the water slide, a now perfected operation.  Afterwards, the team sent the kids home with loads of sugar in hand.  

Thanks for coming down Brandywine.  Everyone one on the team brought so much to the table making the last two weeks a blast. We enjoyed sharing these experiences with you and we look forward to working with you again next year.

Campo Alegria