We're in Liberia!

We made it! The weary travelers have arrived in Liberia. At the airport we were so worried about going through customs with our 8 suitcases, when an angel named Samuel Payne showed up to help us.  He quickly gathered all our bags, stacked them on a cart, and started moving us towards the line specified for 'Diplomats'.  "Oh, no," I say, "we're just missionaries."  He said not to worry and handed our papers to the customs agent, who then pointed at the sign and said, "Do you see that sign?  It says Diplomats."  "I know.  He told us to get in this line," I say, trying to apologize.  The agent tells me again, "The sign says Diplomats."  Then he says, "You are Diplomats for God.  Go on through."  He then folds up our papers without even looking at them.  A tender mercy for sure! 

It was so hard to choose which pictures to show this time - we have seen so many different things in our first 4 days in Liberia.  But I think my favorite thing we've done so far was to travel with the Humanitarian Missionaries - Brother and Sister Miles - to visit a school they had donated 115 desks, 6 chalkboards, and school supplies to.  The village, which was located deep in the bush, had a ceremony to receive the desks and thank the church.  President and Sister Kirkham (who were given a chicken) and 3 other missionary couples, along with the Miles, were invited to attend.  Denney was thrilled to be going to a school.  The children were so excited for the new desks.  They used to sit on low benches made out of bamboo.  Now they each had their own desk.  After the program, the village gathered in a circle and a drummer began to beat his drum.  Then a few of the villagers began to dance.  Well, before you know it some of the missionary Elders joined in!  I'll never forget seeing Denney dance like an African!  I loved being with the beautiful children who all had to shake our hands.  It was a wonderful experience.