You love us and you don't even know us...

Fun photo to kick things off...

We started our day by handing out silicone glow-in-dark bracelets with the words Marshall School embossed in them to all the teachers and students along with a sweet treat; it was heartwarming to see the smiles on the children's face as we greeted them...

After spending the morning at the school we were all walking back to the hostel when I came across one of the teachers going into the house next door to the orphanage.  I recognized her as she has worked at Marshall School for about 6 years.  When I said "hi" to her and commented that I didn't know she lived there she proceeded to invite me into her home.  She was incredibly gracious and pleased that I would enter, 

and I felt honored to be welcomed in.

After showing me around her modest home I began to thank her for her hospitality, but she was quick to cut me off, and that's when she said to me "You love us and you don't even know us.  You provide an education to children and jobs to many, and you don't even know us.  You travel from far away to visit us, and you don't even know us.  It is you who deserves the thanks...thank you for loving us!"  Needless to say we were both in tears at this point and embracing in a hug that knew no boundaries; our religious and cultural differences were irrelevant as we shared an unconditional love that overshadowed everything else...the desire to serve those less fortunate regardless of circumstances all in the name of LOVE. <3 font="" nbsp="">

We have always said when asked what we are going to do in India, 

that we go there to build relationships; based on this encounter I would say

 "mission accomplished".  :)

After lunch we returned to the school to hand out the Greeting Cards from the sponsors;

what fun it is to see the looks on the children's faces when they see the personal photos within their cards, especially if it happens to be one of us!

Here are just a few shots of us with some of our sponsored kids...

Once school let out for the day, we had the opportunity to spend some time with the hostel children.  This was the first chance we actually got to personally meet the new children, as well as reconnect with the kids we've gotten to know over the years.

As always, dancing with the gals was a hit...

Once everyone had enough dancing we sat them all down and told them about a woman back in West Bend whose aunt knew the Landowgals because they delivered 'meals on wheels" to her, and how she wanted to give something of hers to the children of India.

Imagine the excitement when we spread out 50 Beanie Babies for them each to choose from.

From the youngest to the oldest, these gifts were received with enthusiasm, as they really don't have special "toys" or "things" of their own...

We concluded our night at a house church where we were greeted with passion and pizza!! (Indian pizza that is)

After the travelers all sang to get things going, Olivia and Sophia both gave a little talk about using our unique gifts  and worshiping through music.  This was followed by offering individual blessings to all who wanted one.

I'm just going to take this opportunity to say how incredibly proud I am of all the travelers as they each have stepped out of their comfort zones to make this mission trip one that will be remembered with great satisfaction and a sense of personal growth. 

Thanks to all those who have encouraged us along the way; we are privileged to serve

with your love and support carrying us onward.

Namaste'

~Jenny

Joyful Journeys Happy Christmas!!

Today we had the honors of handing out Christmas gifts 

on behalf of Joyful Journey Ministry supporters and what a joyful event it was!!

Over the past several months, people have been contributing to make these gifts possible,

and having the opportunity to hand the presents out with unconditional love 

was a very humbling experience, 

especially since many don't really understand the meaning behind Christmas. 

For the teachers and staff it was a chance to personally say "thank you" for all their hard work and dedication throughout the year... 

For the "scavengers" who clean the sewers and pick up the liter around the school and hostel it's a chance to let them know they are appreciated for doing jobs most of us can't even imagine...

For the children in the school who have so little, 
it was a chance to simply spread good cheer...

For all the travelers it was a chance to count our blessings...

We also had the opportunity to meet the women who are currently enrolled in the Landowgals Fashion Technology Institute and the seamstress who is teaching them how to stitch clothing.  The women couldn't have been more grateful for the opportunity to acquire a skill that will support them in the years to come.  

After meeting the Cutting and Tailoring women, we felt it was "fitting" to purchase some fabric so that we could hire them to sew us some new traditional India outfits for us...

The boys will be going to a Tailor to have theirs made up...

Our evening ended with having dinner at the Marshall High School doctors house.
We were treated with a great meal followed by a worship service.
Both Johanna and Emma gave a small talk about answering "your call" in life and how we are encouraged to live with the spirit of Christmas in our hearts throughout the whole year.

Another exciting day for all and eye opening experience for the Demmon Family.

Namaste'
~Jenny