At the start of a new year, the children enjoyed special trips when sponsors came to visit. We went to eat out at a local restaurant and a day at the national park...playing and exploring in the water, along with a lot of food, worship time and playing games together.

One of our favorite places near the home is this new hanging bridge over the reservoir and green mountains. Such a peaceful place! The girls just have fun taking pictures!

Second Saturday, in January of each year, Thailand celebrate National Children's Day.  Hundreds of children show up at municipal buildings, schools, malls and  even some shops and restaurants to participate in games, prizes. At our local school, the Electric Man showed up with city officials to give out snacks and toys for all. Many booths were set up to bless everyone with food, drinks, and games. Our booth provided face painting treat!  We painted over 200 faces that day! 

"Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in the troubles, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." James 1:27  Each time that I read this verse, I am reminded of Our Father God's care and concern for the orphans and widows.  These young ladies have lived in the children's since there were very young. They have lost both or one of their parents. Some have absent parents. They came to Breanna's House of Joy to live in a safe place from the danger of human trafficking back in their villages. Now, the older girls are growing up to have a deep relationship with God and the opportunity for higher education. One of these girls manage the Daniel 1 House, a home for our college girls. God continues to provide great sponsors, aunties and uncles who would love them and take them on an outing during a school break... 

Through high mountains and lowly rivers, we were on the go for 3 days, all over Chiang Rai. A province where there are many hill tribe villages. In the van, we have a captive audience to share God's encouraging words and to reflect on our dreams and goals for the coming year...

Time to thank God for another year's passing and welcoming the new year. " Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12) We prayed in the new year with praise and thankful hearts and enjoy a good video with hot choco and popcorn, lovingly prepared by our volunteers...