Day 9 - We're home!

Today was the grand exit of Managua, Nicaragua.

After waking at 4:30 am, we loaded the bus at 5:20am in order to leave promptly at 5:30.

World's Best Bus Driver - Eddie

At the Managua airport, it was a chance to have a last look at souvenir shops and drink some coffee. We boarded the airplane around 8am and left at 8:30 am. From there, it was a smooth, four hour flight into the United States, where we were all happy to finally be able to drink tap water.

Upon arriving in Atlanta, Georgia, we were required to go through all of customs where we mostly waited in lines and looked at our passport pictures. We went through the last TSA checkout and then we started talking about where we wanted to eat during our 3 hour layover. Many of the kids picked a variety of restaurants, and ate quickly. Then some decided to venture throughout the massive airport and some decided to play cards.

After the wait, we boarded the huge airplane right on time. When our flight left, we had at first experienced some minor turbulence but it then was soon smooth sailing. We arrived in Salt Lake City safe and sound for the final two hour lay-over.

We ate a little more food, made sure we got more pictures, and had Mrs. Smith give us all backrubs. As we boarded the last plane, some were excited and some complained and seemed to want to turn right back around.

However, all were soon seated and on their way to fly the final stretch back home.

Naomi Robertson

Some of us hated the idea of leaving Nicaragua—the culture, weather, and people are easy to enjoy and hard to let go. We are reminded, however, that we can take home something very important, and that is what God has taught us. As we head home, we pray that we will not forget our experience in Nicaragua, we pray that we will not forget to listen to God daily, and we pray that we will continue to treat others with the servant’s heart, as we have throughout the trip.

Each team member can agree that this short-term mission trip is truly inspiring. It was special for each individual, as we were all challenged in different ways. While we can describe the sights, smells, and sounds, the soul of the trip can truly not be justified with words. I would therefore encourage everyone to experience the trip in person when the opportunity comes. The trip was an incredible adventure. All thanks be to God for this chance. We thank Him for all the protection, planning, and people we met along the way. May God be the one glorified as we return home to our usual lives and share of this experience.

Beryl Wytcherley

BIOS

1) What one thing has impacted you so far on the trip?

2) What do you hope/pray to see God work/change in you?

Beryl Wytcherley

16 yrs, junior

1) While working on the house yesterday, seeing how everyone was so willing and ready to work, and how the Nica workers were able to communicate to us through the language barrier.

2) I noticed yesterday that I was more focused on “doing” and doing it perfectly. I’m hoping God will work in me an attitude more of letting Him work through me, rather than me doing it myself.