Last email update from Niger

Dear Friends and Loved Ones,The team’s time in Niger is winding down but there's never been a dull moment for this mission.

On Monday, they visited Banifandou School in Niamey (the site of the medical clinic last month and the recipient of Chick-fil-A financial support). They enjoyed meeting all the kids and even taught kindergartners to fist bump. They also had the opportunity to meet and pray with the 10th graders. Embracing the full Niger experience, the team shopped at Pirate’s Alley, buying lots of souvenirs (after much haggling with vendors).

After lunch, they took a short nap before riding camels and heading on to a favorite of every team, meeting the beautiful children at Le Bon Samaritan Orphanage. They gave them stuffed animals and soccer balls provided by the Ropers. They played soccer and basketball with the kids. To top off a wonderful day, they feasted on Chinese food at Chez Chin w/the Teagues.

Today they took a scenic boat ride on the Niger River in search of hippos. Unfortunately, there were none to be found. Afterward they visited a water filtration micro-business and the Central Church (formerly Cinema HD). By their own admission, they consumed record amounts of Coke today (good thing Coca-Cola and Chick-fil-A go hand in hand). The team reports the farewell dinner at the Teague's was excellent. Now they are checked in at the Niamey airport and will be departing for Paris at 1:15 am (Niger time). Although their departure from Niger has been slightly delayed, they don't anticipate having any problem making their connection in Paris as they have a fairly lengthy layover.

Thanks for traveling with us,The 2009 WinShape Serve Mission