Dark places, cold places, and happy places...

This past weekend has been a busy and exciting time. Last Thursday, I went to the brothels with Andy, Vicki, and Clark. In one word I would describe it as...dark. In the literal sense, there were VERY few lights. When there were, they were covered with red paper to signify the red light district. In the other sense, it was full of sin, desperation, and shame. I was surprised by how little noise there was in most as the hundreds of men shuffled through inspecting the women. I saw many of my friends, which struck me the most. I now understand so much more of the reality they live in. None of these women ever went there by choice, but in their depseration or from being trafficed from other countries, they were trapped in this situation. I really did feel the presence of God with me as He protected me from situations, and allowed me to talk with many of the women that night. I still haven´t really been able to process the entire thing and don´t know my real reflections on everything I saw and experienced. It just sparked a renewed need for prayer in these places and lives. God´s presence needs to bee seen and felt by these people.

The next day, we left for camping! It was an adventure for sure. We packed down the car and drove 3 hours. We could see Sajama! I recommend you to google this and see a picture of this amazing mountain! It is the highest in Bolivia and INCREDIBLE! We randomly drove off the side of the road and searched for a good camping spot among the many rock formations and amazing views. We found this incredible little valley and set up! We had a great time just hanging out and enjoying each other´s company while eating chicken fajitas (maybe my favorite thing that I have had in Bolivia) and smores (No wait, this is my favorite)! I did keep somewhat warm, although, it got down to 20 degrees. I only woke up once because my toes were freezing, and woke up to a little black puppy that found us to play. I think everyone knows my love for animals, so he was my friend! :) We had quiet time and time to climb and do whatever the entire next morning which was an incredible time of relaxation that I haven´t had in a while. After lunch, we headed to the Chilean border and went swimming in natural hot springs! Just picture relaxing in a natural hot tub (minus the sulfer smell) while gazing at the most amazing mountain ever on one side and amazing volcanoes from Chile on the other! It was incredible!

Yesterday, I got to visit Noelia again. I made it all the way to her house on my own with very few directions and spent SO much time just hanging out in their home and talking with her family. She opened up so much more this time, and I want to reemphasize that I HIGHLY recommend anyone who has the resources to bless a child through Compassion. I feel such a connection with this family and I can not wait to watch Noelia grow up in this program. She is taught from an early age about God´s love and how to pray and how to love others. I met so many older kids that had only amazing things to say about Compassion. I am so sad to leave and not know when I may see Noelia again, but I know she is in good hands!