SULAYMANIYAH WAS WONDERFUL

The dream came true this past few days! Joe and I arrived in Sulaymaniyah on the 29th of December. As gloomy as it was, our day started in a bright way when we were met by Tahseen who was our translator, host and new-found friend. His friend Karzan was our driver - another wonderful young man. On the morning of the 30th, Tahseen picked us up and off we went to the first orphanage - upstairs is where the older boys lived (age10-18 years of age), downstairs consisting of little ones, age 5-10. Talk about a heartwrenching time! But, boys will be boys and the excitement was catchy. My heart swelled with joy as I wrapped each little one (and teen) in a brightly colored, hand sewn quilt. Tahseen explained to them what the red heart on each quilt meant and they were very touched. We also presented each of them with a package of school supplies that came from the organization "OIC" - Operation Iraqi Children by Gary Sinese and Laura Hillenbrand (co-founders). These came through the U.S. Military Humanitarian Team (thank you LTC Herrera and Chief Hall). After pictures and hugs, we were off to the girls orphanage. There were only a few girls present when we arrived. It was a holiday time and most of them were at relatives for a few days. Again, we handed out teddy bears, quilts and school supplies. Lots of hugs too!! I will write a detailed newsletter about our two days in Suly and post it in the next day or so. Thank you to all who have helped me with this wonderful ministry. I have posted the pictures in a slideshow ... enjoy!! and let's continue to help these underprivileged kids.