Sing a New Song- Brazil 2012: Oh, What a Night!! (FOTO FRIDAY!)

My face hurts from all the smiling we were doing while taking pictures!

As I mentioned the other day, I knew today was going to be a complete blur. We picked up T-shirts, went to the church to set-up and do a "sound check" ~~which wasn't a sound check at all, because we had no band or singers to match levels to...~~ Alas, I digress...

After a nice shower and glass of Coracao before the concert, we arrived at the church to find it locked! Ha! No worries. We were let in relatively on time! People were early, for the most part, and I was glad for that. We started only 5 minutes late, but then, nothing worth watching starts on time! I really don't know if I have the words to describe what went on tonight. The adult choir was SO excited, they could hardly wait until the concert was over to cheer for everyone's success. The kids were relatively well behaved and followed directions really well! They sang with such bravado- it was great! Transitions were very smooth. You know the part I love best when conducting a concert? Right after the cut off- the last beat; the final strains of beautiful music still resound and you can match smiling, proud faces to them. Absolutely glorious.

After tons of cheering from the adult choir and many hugs and kisses we went into the church hall to present all of our singers with their certificates. This also turned into a one on one photo shoot. My face still hurts from taking about 100 pictures tonight. Very fun!! Mareeza, Dorinha, Concita, and Racquel sang to Sue and Me as well. It was so sweet. I am glad to say I didn't cry- until I hugged Father McCall. He is so wonderful! I am glad he'll be making a trip up with Fr. Potter just a few days after we get home. Love them both so much.

An Aunt of mine warned me not to fall in love before I came down here. "Jamie- you never know when it can hit you..watch out!" Sorry to say, I didn't completely heed her advice. I did fall in love. With the town and people of Remanso. I don't know if I'll be able to post tomorrow, so I think I have to sum up my trip in tonight's post:

Things I have learned:

Give without reservation
Hug people a lot
Sing to the Lord. Always.
One person CAN make a difference. We can all play a part in changing our world.

I am sad to leave, but really excited to be home on Sunday night. LOVE to all. Thank you to family and friends following up North, my new family in Brazil, and, of course, to Sue!