Goodbye Nick! :(

It's hard to describe the amazingness of Nick Smith! A few months ago, we were contacted by another missionary who had a distant relative wanting to come and volunteer at an orphanage. We had never met Nick, but we got to know him through emails and decided we would give a long-term volunteer a try.....and we are so glad we did! Nick gave up 6 weeks of his summer to pour himself into the lives of the New Day family. He spent much more time with the Zambians than he did with the Americans. Even when he did eat with us, he usually rushed back to the other side of the orphanage so he could tell the kids good night. He cooked American food for the kitchen, like hot dogs and homemade potato chips. He wiped away tears and bandaged owies. He rushed pregnant women to the hospital to have babies on 2 different occasions, and he has the biggest heart of any 19 year old boy we have ever seen. He is a stellar athlete and by far the best kickball player we have, but during kickball games we would have to remind him it was his turn to kick because between kicks he was sitting on the grass with 3-4 kids climbing all over him. He made it a point to learn the name of every worker at New Day, even the day workers he may only see once a week. He joined a local soccer team and bonded with the other players, most of whom do not know Jesus. Nick became a part of our family here and we are so grateful for his sacrifice. He will forever be in the hearts of everyone here at New Day, and Nick..we will make sure the kids NEVER forget you! Nick and all of the New Day kids

Nick looking at Cambree's card - it said "Nick heart Cambree. I love you. You love me." She ADORES Nick and will miss him so much!!

Nick and Cynthia

We gave Nick a Zambian chess set as a going away present :)

Nick also bonded with all of our New Day staffers

Nick was often seen with a guitar in his hands!