We had a great week in El Plan, a small town about an hour outside of Guadalajara. It started with some adventure as we got off the wrong bus stop and were one bus stop further from where our friends Berta and George were going to pick us up!! It all worked out though and we eventually made it to Pastor Martin's house, where we were to stay for two nights before moving on to Bertha and George's house. Pastor Martin and his wife Lolita and their three sons (Misael, Jacob and Martinello) were so hospitable to us. They gave up their beds and Lolita cooked some fabulous mexican dishes. On Saturday (the day after we arrived) we got the paint and assorted brushes and rollers and painted the outside of the church and the courtyard. We had quite a large number of volunteers and got a lot done that day. Craig was able to use his electrical skills and re-wired a number of lights.

The next day was taken up by an am and pm church service. They conducted a bilingual service for us so that we could understand what was going on. Martin is truly a gifted teacher! It is a very quaint church and the family lives in a home on the same property as the church.

On Monday we finished up the painting, including the kids' Sunday school rooms. It looks like a whole new place now!!

On Tuesday Bertha accompanied us into Guadalajara and we did some touristy things...we visited the 'old town' to see the beautiful architecture, the elaborate churches, the murals and of course the famous markets! It was a fun day and we are thankful to Bertha, our gracious tour guide!

It is great the way friendships can develop despite the language barriers. We managed in the course of 5 days to get to know one another and make some really special friendships. Pastor Martin and his family are truly special people and we are thankful for the experience that we had!!

We are back in La Crux now...in the marina for a few more days. Marcus had a fever all day today and Craig is feeling like he is coming down with a flu...so we'll just hang tight for a bit before exploring the islands around Banderas Bay...

bye! Mel