The People...

As beautiful as the country is, the people are even more incredible!

From the moment we arrived until we boarded our flight out, the people of Argentina went so far above and beyond anything I would have ever dreamed of asking to take such good care of us. Their kindness and selfless generosity will be something that I will forever cherish and strive to emulate in my own life.

We were greeted at the airport in Resistencia by the Pastor/Missionary we were going to serve and a couple men who so generously invested their time and personal vehicles to transport us to and from the airport and get us safely where we needed to go. The guys spent the first night there at the beautiful home of our hosts and an incredibly kind couple personally provided us, (women), a lovely room in a hotel in town. 

At the church in Samuhu, where we spent the majority of our trip, the people had gone out of their way to make sure our stay was as comfortable as possible. They worked hard converting the classrooms into bedrooms for the guys and getting the house out back ready for the women. They took us in and provided us wonderful accommodations during our stay.

These are some of the incredible women who gave tirelessly of themselves and their time every day to provide all of our delicious meals and make sure we were well fed. In the evening they made sure our laundry was done for us. They made trips to the store to make sure that we had not just what we needed but little comforts and extras as well. They were such a beautiful example of the hearts of the Argentine people. These beautiful women went so far above and beyond to make sure we were so, so well taken care of. I could never thank them enough for all that they did for us.

Even the young guys and ladies went out of their way to welcome us and include us! They threw us such a lovely party so we could come together and watch the U.S. vs. Ecuador match in the Copa America Centenario. They made us tea and provided us snacks. The three of us that went had so much fun! They really made us feel like we were part of their community, not just visiting outsiders. 

A couple days later we were invited to join them for their afternoon gathering up at the sports complex where they play basketball and volleyball. My husband and I and one other team member went and had a great time just experiencing life as they live it. 

The people of Samuhu, from the youngest to the oldest, we so kind, generous, and welcoming. Not only did they make us feel completely welcome and at home in a land so far away, but they really made us feel like family. They blessed us beyond words and for that I will be forever thankful. 

Even the employees at a cafe in Villa Angela took the time to offer us coffee and a place to relax while we waited to be able to eat dinner after siesta.

Each person we met along the way, including the Superintendant in Samuhu, who took the time to meet us, gave such warm greetings, and spent time showing us how easy it really is to truly connect in spite of language barriers.

When it was time to depart they walked us out, they helped load up our bags and they prayed for us for safe travels. 

Even though I didn't leave a shoe there, like the guys suggested at the football party, Argentina and her people will forever be in my heart. Until the next time we meet... May the Lord bless you richly! <3