What a joy to have Barry and Ellen Farlow with us today. They were both reared as missionary children in Brazil and are now married and planning on going back to their homeland to continue the work there.
Click on “more” to see photo.
MONDAY, THE LAST DAY FOR THE TEAM
This morning we were a little slower getting up, but once we did, the day didn’t stop! The team cleaned the church and packed their bags. We then headed up the coast on Highway 1 to see the Big Sur–the central California coast. As we drove north we spotted some whales migrating and saw them blow the spouts off in the distance. Poor Mrs. Sanders was told she was seeing things at first, but those who made fun had to “eat crow”….
We went up to see the Northern Elephant Seals. This is the slow season, but it is the only place in the Northern Hemisphere that you can see them. We got a show from two giant males fighting in the water, saw some “toddler” seals and some mothers.
From there we headed to San Simeon Bay and Hearst Beach for a picnic lunch. The weather was gorgeous, if a little windy.
After lunch we went back down to Morro Bay and visited some shops, and then over to Morro Rock and Morro Beach for some waves (barely since it was so cold), sand (LOTS of sand because of the wind), some sun, and some football. It was then back to the church to finish packing and head to L.A.
We had a wonderful time with the team here. They were such a blessing and encouragement to the whole church. Thank you parents, Pastor Whitcomb, and Community Baptist Church for your support, prayers, and sacrifice to make this possible.
Click on “more” to see photos.
ANOTHER SUNDAY WITH THE TEAM
We had a good morning service with five visitors from the fliers! The choir sang two numbers and Mike led the singing again with Karis playing the accompaniment on the piano.
In the evening service Ryan, Jon, and Mike each brought a devotional.
After pizza and a slide presentation, the team had a “talent” show–quite frankly, we’re glad we didn’t see this side of them at the beginning of the week…. 
Click on “more” to see photos.
SATURDAY WITH TEAM
Today some of the team left for an early run to Wal-Mart while the rest got ready for a trip to a 1,000 acre ranch leased by one of our members. A number of the team went horseback riding–some for the first time. We grilled hamburgers out for lunch, rested in the sun, and then headed back to the church.
Some of the team distributed the rest of the church brochures while others fixed dinner, made applesauce from our apples, and baked chocolate chip cookies.
After dinner we ran over our choir numbers, cleaned the church, and played some games.
Click on “more” to see photos.
FRIDAY VBS AND YOUTH OUTING
We had fourteen again today for VBS. They made swords out of yardsticks, which were pretty neat. I heard that the Sanders got the yardsticks “free” at the Farmer’s Market last night. We assume that they were “free” with the consent of the owner….
After lunch Pastor Shanks spent some time with the team talking about ministry in CA and teaching them a little bit about the pipe organ. We then practiced music, prepared for the evening activities, and fixed dinner.
After dinner, the Youth Event started at 6:30 p.m. and there were 42 young people from Jr. High through college. With eleven sponsors, we had a great evening playing Aliens, having a devotional, and eating s’mores around the fire.
THURSDAY VBS
We had thirteen kids today, and it was another great day. They made helmets for the helmet of salvation, and the kids (especially the boys) love them!
After lunch the team went out to do laundry. Pastor Shanks grilled out Santa Maria tritip steaks for dinner while the team peeled and cored the apples from yesterday for fresh apple cobbler.
After dinner we went to the Farmer’s Market in downtown SLO (San Luis Obispo). The city closes the main street every Thursday night and vendors set up their tables to sell herbs (NOT marijuana), fruits, vegetables, candy, and many other things.
Click on “more” to see photos.
