We had a bunch of girls from the University of Arkansas (Razorbacks!) stay last week with us out in the village! They are spending a total of six weeks in Albania and chose to spend one of those weeks in Vlashaj to get a broader picture of the country and the face of missions here!
The team was hosted by our friends, the Shackelfords in Elbasan. The team leaders (upper left, above) Arsid and Lindsey (married) were great. Arsid is Albanian and this was his first time back in Albania since coming to the States 14 months ago. We were with them Tuesday, then returned to Vlashaj on Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning. While in Vlashaj they visited homes, played lots of soccer and volleyball with the kids, and sat in on the various programs that go on in the center throughout the week. Two of the students are studying nursing and shadowed the village nurse for part of a day!
The team came prepared for ministry and willingly shared testimonies, creative dramas, and played in the middle of the heat with our youth.
I think I'm always surprised how much of my heart leaves when volunteers depart, but our lives feel much richer for having met these young women. They encouraged our hearts and filled us up by loving our friends and neighbors.
They all shared how refreshing and peaceful they found their first village experience (how can you not when the traffic occasionally looks like this):
Come back anytime, girls!
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