Day Six: Waterfall, pitfalls and overheating

Today we had the luxury of a sleep in before a delicious breakfast of pancakes and scrambled eggs. At 9, we all squished into various modes of transport and headed to Tent City. Along the way, we stopped to view splendid scenery of rice fields and mountains. Upon arrival, the team carried out feedings of lugaw, playing basketball with the local teenagers, handed out balloon animals and pipe cleaner bracelets. Some of the team walked around the streets calling the kids for the feeding and interacting with the people around. Others did basic medical work, where they treated several skin diseases on small babies and mothers. Mitchell, Jon, Gwyneth, Maya and Mrs Van Wyk brought the first aid kit, but could only do basic treatment on the wounds, with the little they had. Keziah and Shona had babies draped over them not wanting to leave their arms. They cleaned the boys ear, head and thigh infections while Shona cleared the eyes of baby Sarah-Jane.  It left us heartbroken as we could not give the correct medicine, but we were grateful that we were able to bring some relief to the family and we pray for them. 

The teams also had the task of swiftly making spada and aso (swords and dogs) out of balloons. Some sat in the car, pumping the balloons and then handing them to the team members outside, who made the balloon animals while an eager crowd of kids gathered around. While all of this was going on Jon and Josh were off blessing a man they met who was using soccer as a way to mister to the youth in the area. It just so happened a soccer ball had been brought out on the trip with the intention of giving it to someone... turns out that someone had been already planned out for us. 

After finishing at Tent City, we made our way to the “Filipino Maccas”, Jollibee. Every meal came with a serving of rice and we tried special fries that tasted like hot chips coated with strawberry Nesquik, then drizzled with chocolate topping.

Packing back into the cars, we went to the stunning Daranak Falls. The ride was filled with loud singing, and the blue team was once again passing out Tootsie Rolls to the passing traffic and pedestrians. Of course, Nelson took home the greatest “Tootsie Throw Achievement” of the day. It involved a local Filipino daredevil racing alongside the van on his trusty scooter, reaching out for a high five at top speeds, only to be met by a delightful Tootsie Roll - Now that’s how we Tootsie Roll! Well done to Nelson for the great catch of the day.

When the team arrived at Daranak Falls they were met with a truly incredible glimpse of Gods beauty and creation. It is hard to put into words just how amazing a place like Daranak Falls is. However, Rachael and Nelson are going to have a fair try at it…

Once arriving in Dazzanak (or in Filipino “Daranak”) we scoped the area that we, invasive tourists, were soon to take over. We found ourselves surrounded by a mystical environment where, a roaring waterfall poured into a glistening pool of unicorn sweat. “I think we saw a dolphin in there too, quotes Rachael” – Rachael. At the corner of the waterfall a Filipino dressed in shining, shimmering, splendid white robes gently played a harp. For most of the afternoon we remained in a blissful trance. Eryn described the experience as, “No I had a quote last night, don’t put it in… You need to get fresh comments, ask Rachael,” and so Rachael recounted, “I already quoted last night.” in conclusion Wayne had the final comment, “It was rejuvenating and tranquil, giving me the energy required…”

“To sustain me for the rest of the trip” piped up Nelson.

*Wayne claps as he recognises Nelson’s true brilliance*

On the ride back, we encountered some troubles with our cars. Firstly, Miss Smoker denied the red and yellow team the aux cord, despite them pleading desperately. Leaving them to complete the journey home acapella style. Unfortunately for her and the yellow team, their car overheated shortly afterwards. Some quick thinking and mechanical ingenuity from Jack Pleysier and Miss Smoker got the car up and running again, safely getting everyone back home.

After a delicious dinner of lasagne, the yellow and red team went in Miss Smoker’s car to Journey for Hope where they did praise and worship with the teenagers. The blue team went to J.CO to buy donuts for the other teams and write this blog. Being surrounded by donuts it was clear that Mr Butson thought he’d found a paradise even more beautiful than Daranak Falls. Unfortunately while ferrying the red and yellow team to J.CO,  Miss Smoker’s car overheated again. Causing it to stop completely, and the team had to push it off the road across three lanes of traffic. With much pray and some cooling down of the radiator Miss Smoker was able to nurse the car back to the ministry centre.

The Blue team waited patiently as Christian, a ministry team member from KIM came to collect them. They filled the time playing Duck, Duck, Goose and Bunny, Bunny, entertaining the local security guards immensely, and some how not demolishing the 2 dozen donuts they had bought to share with the rest of the team. 

We are all back safely now, having shared our God Moments and Love Attacks from today and getting to sample some more of Gods beautiful creation... donuts. 

* The car we have been borrowing from Journey for Hope is going to be looked at tomorrow by local mechanic. We are praying for the funds that could be required for this and would like for you to pray into this also.

Eryn: hi fam, love and miss you all. Having an awesome time, hope you are not missing me too much and also hope you’re not letting Tilly sleep on my bed.

Gwyneth: Hey mum and dad! I’m having a great time here and have experienced such memorable and fantastic moments here! Miss you so much and I’ll see you soon.

Jack: yooo hooo…  lovin’ life here might stay a bit longer. Still love you tho.

Nelson: Hey Moushka, I hope the hoomans are treating you well, feel free to tear up some plants in the front garden <3 <3

Ps. Give my love to other residents hoomans if you get the chance.

PPs. If one of them comes at you suspiciously, you’re going for a walk or your heading to the vet

Goodluck <3

Wayne: The experiences that I have had so far have been greatly influential.

Sui: Hi Ka Nu, I miss you and love you. It is really fun here and I hope to see you soon.