A day set aside for shopping...

Today was all about shopping for special outfits and such for ourselves.  Unlike some things that have changed since our first trip over, this definitely was as exhausting as it was back then, but equally as exciting...especially for the newcomers!

Novahu decided to start with the guys since that would probably not be as draining, and he was right, they found their outfits almost instantly!! And the biggest surprise was that Al, yes Al, got purple pants!!

 The Grand Poobaa sat back and took it all in!! 😂

They also got fabric to have some custom work done; naturally the taylor met them in the street to take their measurements, because why not!?!

Next was our quest to find outfits for the women. I'd first like to say that all the guys were real troopers about patiently enduring this whole process, but Jordan actually took it to the next level by being the guy with the eye for the perfect fit and eagerly gave his 2 cents worth! 

We looked at many different fabric selections and tried on different dresses before making our final selections.

Getting from store to store required either squeezing into the old school van...

Or braving the streets of Kakinada by crossing them at your own risk. ..

Midday, we took a much needed break to have lunch and rest up at the Valluri's home; they sure do take good care of us!! 💗

Upon heading back to the city, we made our final selections and then it was off to the tailor for our fittings. I'm not sure who had more fun shopping, Joan or Olivia; regardless, they'll both be sporting some beautiful Indian attire!! 

It's amazing how these little shops are tucked away into the smallest nooks and crannies. 

What a vulnerable process, but we're sure it will be worth it when we can wear our beautiful attire! 

Across the alleyway was man embroidering by hand...

After a few more stops, it was time to head back to the hotel for the night; I was thrilled to get a turn riding on the back of Manjula's nephew, Sasikanth's, motorcycle! It's a whole different experience going from inside the safety of a vehicle to putting yourself out there in the mix!! 

motorcycle ride in Kakinada

What an adventure!!

Namaste'

~Jenny

What's the real gift...

What an incredibly full first day...15 hours and still counting as I write this!!!

After our breakfast and morning devotion we ventured off to spend some quality time with the students at Marshall School!  As we greeted each class individually, Candy Canes were passed out to all the children and Beanie Babies for the teachers.  You'll have to take my word that it was a sweet time because unfortunately my job was going to be taking pictures during that point and I got sidetracked...go figure!!  Thank goodness we have one photo that one of the other travelers snapped!

It was also a day of handing out gifts to family members on behalf of all the travelers.  These treasures consisted of items such as knit washcloths, homemade soaps, lotions, sweaters  (yes, we still had some Prayer Shawl sweaters to share), blood pressure cuffs and stethoscopes, beef jerky, delicious caramel corn, and a personalized Joyful Journeys Zentangle created especially for Novahu and Manjula.

But the greatest gift came when we spent time reading books, that we brought, with the school children, only to find how well most of them could read English themselves!  Three cheers for Marshall School...they are doing an amazing job empowering children, who normally wouldn't have this opportunity, with a top notch education!!

While I'm cheering, I'd really like to give a shout out to the members of our team who truly stepped outside of their comfort zone to interact with the kids in this manner...You Rock!! 👍😉💕

After school, it was time for fun as some joined in playing an exhilarating game of Kabidi.

While others enjoyed being spectators...

And then there was snuggle time...

Following dinner, we were invited to the House Church in Mamidada that also serves as a Cutting and Tailoring Center. We were graciously greeted with flowers and smiles!

In return, words of encouragement were offered to the House Pastors from that area and the women who are participating in the sewing program. The students also received a new pair of scissors and a tape measure. 

We wrapped up the evening with a blessing for all then headed back to our hotel.

My heart is so full, I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds!! 💗

Or should I say later this morning...I really need to turn in now!! 😴

Namaste'

~Jenny