Greetings from the Canal Zone!

Friday night we came back to Panama City and stayed in a hotel we didn't like, so on Saturday we moved to the Holiday Inn (new) on the Panama Canal. It is sitting in the middle of what used to be U.S. military base housing (Clayton - we're not sure if that was Army or Navy). They have been slowly turning the abandoned military bases into housing and businesses. Much of the area is just empty buildings (base housing, PX, Officer's Clubs, guard houses, etc). We can see the canal from the front of the hotel - right across the road (our room is in the back - bummer). It is really neat to watch the ships come into the lock and be lowered then sent on their way. It takes a really long time. I wonder if this area is Maria's new Zonian cousin Tom's former hangout? (For anyone who doesn't know, my brother Don's, daughter Angela's, husband Tom grew up in the Canal Zone.) Anyway, today (Sunday) we went to Casa Hogar (the children's home), for church services at the Iglesia de Cristo and to visit. We had a great day. Maria was happy to see everyone, and so were we! We have been made to feel very welcome, and appreciate the hospitality so much. We are so thankful that Maria has recieved such loving care! And Sister Sarah, you've been such a help, and such an angel - thank you! Tomorrow (Monday) we are going to Gamboa (a national park, zoo). We going on some kind of Monkey Island adventure. Maria is very excited!