We wrapped up the ILA this morning and said sad good-byes to our student and educator friends. There was only time for a quick group photo and then they were gone for a year.

The entire week was a success with students and their teachers growing in many ways, including spiritually. We were all tired, but that good kind of exhaustion that comes with completing the task that the Lord had us prepare for for so long. Our team worked so well together and had such a great attitude, even through some hot and dusty and frustrating circumstances. It seemed like God's anointing was on us all.

After the students left we drove to Entabeni, a nearby Big 5 game park for a bush drive and dinner. We were fortunate to see elephants, rhinos, and lions. The other two of the big five, buffalo and leopard, escaped our cameras, however many drives only catch one or two. We saw three! Kristian must have some African DNA left in her system because she seemed to be able to spot the animals in the wild much sooner than any of us. Since God has given her this gift, she surely should return to Africa again and again!

The team left about an hour ago back to Johannesburg with Vickie. They'll start their trip back to RDU after a few hours of shopping. I stayed behind to prepare for training starting tomorrow. Thanks to everyone for their constant prayers. Continue to pray for the team as they return. And also for Vickie and I as we do some staff training here at Shikwaru and in Cape Town through this next week.

For the entire team,

Hal