A moments notice children can arrive at our doors. These cases are complex and often times on the verge of a legal mess. It is necessary at times to avoid revealing any details of the children. These children do exist but in essence have no real identity. Lack of parental guidance, abuse, and abandonment leave children in survival mode.
It was very interesting this day as my wife and I were watching this boy. As he was new to our home we instructed him to play in areas where we could see him. After he left that defined area twice we sat him down for 5 minutes and explained the importance of obedience. After the 5 minutes ended he was free to return to play in the large open area that we have. To our surprise he did not want to play or even get out of the chair after we told him his 5 minutes were over. Rebellion, payback time, pain, not knowing how to respond to good discipline, or just enjoying not being abused. We were not sure of his reasons but after 15 minutes or so he was off to play.
When new children arrive the effects of bad or no discipline, and abuse are very evident. We work hard at that challenge of showing love, and teaching the importance of obedience. Pray with us for these children. Support the work we do here. The children need us to be there for them.

One of three new girls that just arrived at the Casa is seen here with Irma. One thing that has happened many times before but is both touching and sad. Irma talking to the girls and asking about their mother. The oldest girl says that mom is never there or always out, but the youngest quickly saying that we don't have a mother. The oldest sister was so quick to respond saying that Irma can be your mother. From that point on the little one has been hanging on Irma every opportunity that she can. It is a good feeling to see them give that confidence so quickly but sad to see the desperation or great need of love. Big shoes to fill.

Irma and I took the girls to the park this day. This is something that they love to do. Getting out, doing something different, or just breaking the routine. I am the one behind the camera. We spent the afternoon walking around the park having spontaneous moments of fun along the way.
I liked the bubbles in this picture as it made for a cute photo, but I could see much more in what was obvious. Bubbles can be like dreams or thoughts. Many times we dream about things but only dream. Bubbles will drift away or pop and they are gone. Our dreams can be similar to that. I know that I dream allot and don't see most of those dreams come to life, but what really spoke to my heart was the children here that dream much about their home or what they would want to come of their lives, really wanting that dream to be real. They seem to be caught in that dream world unable to get out on their own. Pray for the children and for us to have the wisdom to guide and love them through. Dreams can come to life if we really believe, and begin to walk toward our dreams.

Happy ending

My wife and I were going into our chapel area on the second floor of the school building and we noticed a bird laying on the floor. My wife stooped to pick it up and noticed that it was still alive. She held the bird in her hands and said a simple prayer. Then she set our new feathered friend on the ledge to see what would happen. To our joy the bird flew away.
We get hurt children in our facility and with that same tender loving care we work to restore joy, peace, stability, and love in their lives. Our prayer is that all of the children that pass through our doors will have a happy ending. It is a great challenge in our work dealing with all types of children without professional help. Our passion and God's guidance are the tools we have. It is our greatest joy though to see damaged hearts being restored. Seeing joy, love and peace where before were only fear, pain and doubt.

A fun event at Casa de Ninos. Creativity, color, music, and dance made for an entertaining time that day. The children behind the masks each have their very distinct personality which adds color and life to the atmosphere at our Casa.  
What did impact me was the thing of the mask. God has done a marvelous work within us all, but we hide behind a mask not allowing people to see the wonderful work within, or we have allowed the world to suppress the beauty within. Let that beauty within shine out and  bless those around you.