Whilst we were still in Romania, our second week we traveled to Amara (about 4 hours away from Brasov). We had long days filled with church services, home visits, and various children programs (several of which we had no idea about until we were doing it). It was a testament of our flexibility and mental (and even physical) endurance for long days such as these. 
But the man on the right left a big impact on me personally. His name is Elisha, from Pakistan, and is an incredible preacher and man of God. These pictures are from one of the home churches we went to the first few days. He comes from and Eastern country but has been westernized - so when he was
preaching he would NOT let himself go past the allotted time he gave himself. But BOY, did he have the most charismatic and animated preaching I think I've ever seen. I loved it. You couldn't get board listening (and watching) him. 
The picture below is of our good friend Baseelah, you would often find with Elisha's ipad taking videos of everything happening. B. stayed with us at the church we were at and helped with all our daily activities,down to helping make our meals and clean up afterwards. Such a gentleman.
At that same church house, one of the girls we were with, Christina, helped Grace accomplished something she wanted to accomplish and would NOT stop talking about: riding one of these horse-drawn wagons. Elated might be right word for her at that moment.
I wanted to show the pictures from the day we went to a home for mentally handi-cap boys. We had great day. The boys LOVED the fact that they had guests that day and were more than eager to show us their rooms and all their personal things. We put together a little program for them, including games, puppets
(that was our first and only time on this trip we've used puppets so far....it was TONS of fun!), a skit, and lots of songs. And after we performed with our puppets, they gave us a performance with the puppets as well! I honestly don't know who had more fun that day, the boys or us.
The big picture below is of our good friend, Raluca, an OM Romania field worker who worked right beside us that whole week. She's worked with OM for yeeaaaarrrrsss now, but has a real heart for her home in Romania. She is also an excellent translator.
We went on several house visits and brought the church to them! Many of the people we were with couldn't leave their homes for a many number of reasons. When we were with this woman on the right - we felt the presence of God so powerfully! Hearing her story, listening to several of our people give a short message or encouraging word, singing songs of praise and prayer. So powerful at that moment.
On another occasion we were given the opportunity to travel into a gypsy village. I've heard a lot about gypsies - but had no idea what to expect. During our time here, our original plans were completely thrown off and we had to improvise a LOT. But it's ok....we're kind of professionals at that. It was amazing to be here tho, even just for a short time, doing songs, skits, games, and messages. The children were especially receptive to what we had to offer. Raluca is pictured with 2 girls who wanted to make a commitment with Jesus Christ in their lives. How encouraging!! 
Another day with kids, another day we completely made everything up (well at least scheduling wise) as we went along. We were brought to this neighborhood and wasn't told much, just that there might be some kids in the park that we could spend time with. It went from JUST us, to a couple kids, to a handful, to about 15-20 kids just stopping what games everyone was playing at the park (fun games! That what games they were). We were able to do our Good Samaritan little drama, and Mpumi was able to deliver a message that was perfect for kids that age.
On our last day we went to a home for mentally handicapped children. We weren't able to stay very long, and were only able to sing a few songs and help with snack time. However, I think we were all able to make a special connection with these kids. For me personally, my camera became a HUGE hit, this boy and his twin were particularly fascinated with all aspects of the camera, the lens, the buttons. I loved it. They made a huge impression on me. 
