Hacienda Of Hope

She took a short glance at me and squinted her eyes as a quick smile over took her face. She stood up and stepped forward to receive her award and praise. Leonella stood straight with her full 12 year old confidence as her grade was announced to reveal her hard work in her hardest subject ...mathematics! Afterwards she cried as we privately discussed her success from one short week ago when this subject was very grim for both of us. At that point when I was lecturing her about the apparent apathy she displayed toward the study of math, she gave me the sad look that seemed to say "grandpa, please don't give up on me!" Even though I miss a lot in the language, I did understand her feelings. Now she had changed her outlook toward this difficult part of school study. She had made another great attempt and it had paid off today as we were both so proud of her success!This experience sank deep into my heart and reminded me all over again of why God has brought us here. Many days are difficult, challenging and at times ...down right disappointing, but the interface we have with the kids like this brings it all into clear focus ...Pat and I are needed and useful to them!Our heart felt thanks go to those of you who regularly keep us in your prayers. This is God's Project and it is through Him that all blessings flow for each of us connected to Hacienda of Hope. If you are a financial partner, may God richly bless your answer to His prompting in your heart to give to these abandoned children.I know it has been way too long since you have had news about our work on this blogspot. I hope you will tell your friends that there is fresh material to look at now. I also hope you will be checking back real soon to see other postings. We have had tremendous difficulties with our communication links with you via this blog as well as our email service in the past several months. However, it seems that we are finally able to access the internet and are excited to bring you up to date with all that is going on. We will be posting lots and lots of pictures, so stay tuned to this site for more. Please don't give up on me!

(Sent from Jerry Snyder)