"Who is This?"

As my time here comes to a close, the days spent with the children of NCV make me realize how hard it will be to leave.

Yesterday, I worked at the girls' home for over 12 hours. But, the hours and the time didn't matter. Only the memories and the fun, the hugs and the laughs.

We started the day by working in small groups doing their life books. Thanks to Becky and Mark Teiwes, former NCV volunteers, each girl has a life book that she can decorate, put photos, and reminisce. Living a life away from family is hard, and I can't even imagine what these girls feel. But, having a personal place to paste photos and glue down memories makes a difficult situation more bearable. The girls had a blast, and it was obvious that each photo had significance and memories. It was so beautiful to sit and watch as smiles crept over their faces as they slowly looked through their pile of pictures, and as the sat back and admired the pages of photos, stickers, and decorations.

After dinner, as we were all washing and drying dishes, cleaning the dining room and organizing clothes, the phone rang. I answered, "Buenas Noches." And a girl's voice answered back, "Buenas Noches, this is Camila." I was shocked and confused, because the only Camila I knew returned to her family about a year ago. "Who is This?," I asked again just to be sure and clear up my uncertainty. The girl on the other end quickly answered, "It's Camila. Is this Tia Megan?" Then I knew, it was her. This absolutely made my night! When Camila was living in the home, we were very close, and I had a very difficult time when she left. Her return to her family came as a surprise--we found out about 3 hours before it all happened. As we quickly planned a goodbye party for her, the feelings of sadness and complete shock were palpable. Having to say a rushed goodbye, and giving her a final hug and kiss still weigh heavily on my heart. Working so closely with these girls, you create a special bond. And, it's extremely difficult to say goodbye, knowing you may never see them again. So, to hear her voice, and be able to talk was incredible. I am hoping to head to her city before I return to the States to see her one last time, and to bring photos, letters, and cards, and give her one last hug.

And, to finish off a wonderful night, we had a Bingo tournament. To make it more interesting, the grand prizes, which the girls were unaware of, were Justin Beiber and Katy Perry posters, along with some sweets. They had a blast, but I had more fun watching them and listening to them laugh and get excited!

These are the days that make me realize leaving Cochabamba will be much harder than expected. Since being here, I have 24 beautiful sister, and 10 amazing brothers who will be missed every moment. But, I will hold them in my heart. Forever.