We have Keith and Carolyn here, pastors from our home church in Milk River and Sunburst. They joined us today for a half-day Valentine`s Day Retreat for our staff at Shiphrah Bahay Paanakan (Birthing Home) and the little children`s home.

We had a beautiful time together--thinking, praying, talking, eating, singing, walking through the lovely grounds at Mary Hill, and--most importantly--growing in love.

Volunteers were able to spell us at the two ministry homes so we were free to enjoy the day together. People brought out so much food that we are still eating it now.

Keith and Carolyn prayed for each one, and we all felt very special and cared for. Belen said, ``It is good that we had a heart-cleansing day on Heart Day.``

The community we serve in and with is a such a tremendous gift.

Simon was at risk when he was admitted to the little children's home. In fact, he only whisked through our entry way on route to respite care from the hospital.

Simon was born by cesearean and was in hospital for two weeks. He went straight from the hospital into respite care with a volunteer family. Both Nancy and Chris are with the US Embassy Club, which is so very supportive of our work at tlc. Their two families shared Simon's care until he came back into the home...today.

Chris has not just taken him into her home but, very evidently, into her heart. Today was not a casual goodbye.