Have you ever been awoken at 6:45 in the morning to the singing of "You are my sunshine" and breakfast in bed? Well, that's how my Valentines Day began. :)

Thursday morning, the guys on our team came serving a self-made breakfast and singing to us, while promising to serve us all day. We exited our bedrooms and the entire house was decorated with pink and purple hearts dangling everywhere, and multiple valentine cards (and chocolate) for all of us on the table. It was a lovely way to wake up, though rather early :), and then we headed off to our ministries. As it was Valentines Day, Brianna and I decided it would be nice to bring little gifts to our friends that we minister. So, we went to the shop and bought candy bars and chocolate to give out. Note: if you ever want to make a Swazi's day, give them chocolate, I have NEVER seen people be more excited in my entire life. We began at the Hope House giving my friend, Gogo (grandma), a kitkat bar. She then proceeded to say a huge thank you prayer in Siswati. After leaving, we thought it would be nice to give some chocolate to the lady selling fruit on the street. This lady is there every single day selling fruit, but she speaks no English so our conversations with her are limited. We figured that we could at least show her some love by giving her a candy bar...oh did she ever feel loved. This lady leaped off the sidewalk and threw herself at us as she began screaming and jumping up and down out of joy.

Our day continued in this manner, as we did our ministry and gave out chocolate. When we got home, we found the guys were also cooking an exquisite meal (done by themselves), and were serving us by candle light dinner. Oh...and this meal included chocolate cake by the way. :) All the girls were waited on like we were royalty, and I must say, I wouldn't mind being treated that way every day....

Right now, we are in South Africa for the day as we are getting our visas renewed for Swaziland, and will be heading back in about 2 hours. Tomorrow I will return back to the Hope House, Market, and the Hospital to continue my ministry.

Things to pray for:

- All of the illnesses facing the team. So many people are sick with colds and parasite related illnesses.

- Protection of our hearts and emotions as the reality of this new world around us is continuously shocking. Pray that the emotions people feel will be used to more effectively share the gospel.

- Continue praying for the people of Swaziland. Pray they will see the need for Christ as they see their need for bread.

Thank you once again for all the support and prayers, it is so encouraging!

In Faith,

Elisa