tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26362338161621610992024-03-23T03:16:24.749-07:00Raining Hope UgandaRaining Hope, Incorporated ministers to the children of Uganda. We currently care for 32 children in the area of Jinja. We have a team of volunteers stateside that are a vital part of ministering to these children. It is a day of new beginnings! God is moving in powerful ways! Continue to watch and see what God is doing to bring hope to the children.Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.comBlogger237125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-15754031761001444852023-09-10T06:01:00.003-07:002023-09-10T06:01:34.415-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #15 - September 5, 2023 - Wedding & Reception! <p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">The long awaited day was finally here!</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Saturday, August 12, 2023, Hilary and Florence were becoming man and wife! </b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">It is hard to believe that I have known them both for close to 17 years.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Hilary just turned 28 years old and Florence is 26 years old!</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">That means when we first met they were 11 and 9! Wow!!!</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Hilary and the wedding committee were busy talking to friends and family every day the week of the wedding.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>At the end of each day, they would come together and make adjustments to the budget depending on how much they had raised.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They were doing this all the way to the day of the wedding!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I thought waiting until the last minute to buy flowers was a challenge!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I have never seen anything like it!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They were still finalizing the food and the decorations all the way up to the morning of the ceremony! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The other thing that has always been a part of the culture is <b>when things actually start.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> I mentioned this in Update #4.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Most of the time when they say an event will start at a specific time, hardly anyone is actually there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Most of the time, things begin an hour or two after what is planned.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I was waiting at the hotel to be picked up, I always added at least one hour.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I filled in that time with working on updates. But when it got to the third hour, I would begin to wonder! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The same was true the day of the wedding.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I was picked up one hour<b> after the scheduled start time!</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Yet, when we got to the house, only about a third of the guests had arrived!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Even the bride and the groom were not there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>While we waited, the choir led in worship.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>People started slowly filling in the seats. Ultimately,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>we had over 200 people attend the wedding!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>I will never forget when Hilary first arrived.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> It all became very real.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The bridal party got ready in separate places off campus.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When Hilary and the groomsmen arrived, they drove onto our compound to shouts of joy!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They got out on the side of the house where the awaiting guests could not see them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But when I stood next to Hilary as he exited the car driven by Godfrey, all I could do was cry.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He looked so handsome and happy.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>All the planning and the ups and downs of the past three weeks just melted away.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>This moment is what mattered.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Hilary and Florence were getting married!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The groomsmen, which included our handsome Henry, proceeded through the archway with a coordinated dance up the aisle.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Hilary’s best man was dressed in the same outfit as Hilary.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The best man stays with Hilary basically anywhere he goes. He helps him with anything he needs.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They all had a seat in the front rows as we waited for the arrival of the bride.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We had about 20 minutes of worship led by Sylvia and the choir.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>One of Godfrey’s assistants in Raining Hope Ministries is also called Godfrey!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That Godfrey led as a master of ceremonies.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>As he was sharing with the guests, the <b>cars carrying Florence and the bridal party finally turned into our compound!!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">This time the cars drove right up to our venue.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Remember the bows we made in Update #4? They used the big, fancy bows to decorate the wedding cars! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I handed the bouquets to the bridal party as they were exiting the cars.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Wow!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Florence was so beautiful!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She had a beautiful traditional wedding gown.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You could see her huge smile right through the veil!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Because Florence no longer has her father, her uncle was the representative to walk her down the aisle. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">In Update #6, I mentioned the significant, cultural role the main aunt plays. The aunt prepares the bride for marriage in counseling and guidance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She also speaks on behalf of the bride to her father and mother.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is this aunt that faces the family to break the news about the relationship.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>During the preparation for the Introduction, the aunt is the one who negotiates on behalf of the bride to the parents.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The aunt is the one responsible for helping the bride ensure she is marrying the right man.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This <b>“senga”</b> now functions as a <b>“maid of honor”</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She is not dressed like the rest of the bridal party.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But she has the <b>responsibility of standing with Florence throughout the whole day.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; color: #161a1e; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">As they came through the archway, Florence was just beaming with joy!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Our little Hope and Trust were the flowers girls.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They were just so adorable!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>On Hilary’s side, the other Godfrey’s two young sons were like “ring bearers”.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Esther, Florence’s sister was just beautiful as one of the bridesmaids.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Florence and the bridesmaids were also seated in the front few rows. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; color: #161a1e; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Pastor Robert, the officiating pastor</b> was from another local church in Jinja.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He is actually the same pastor who married Godfrey & Irene around 14 years ago.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When Godfrey was in school he also was also his pastor. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; color: #161a1e; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">It was interesting because the <b>vows are actually read twice.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> First, the pastor approaches Hilary then Florence. They separately affirm the vows with, "I will". <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are not standing together.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>As the custom, the aunt or “senga” was seated in-between Hilary and Florence. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is only after these first vows that one of Florence’s brothers came forward to officially present Florence to Hilary. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">At this moment, the pastor shares a story from <b>Genesis 29</b> in the Bible.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Jacob agreed to work for Laban for seven years so he could marry Rachel whom he loved.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Yet, Laban tricked him into marrying the older sister, Leah first. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So the pastor said, <b>“Hilary, how sure are you that this is Florence you are marrying?”</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That is when Hilary lifts the veil off of Florence and the pastor says, “Is she the one?”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Hilary says, “Yes” and the response is “Hallelujah!” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was a very sweet but funny moment!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">This time the <b>vows are repeated to each other.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Throughout the vows, the response of the guests were so precious.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There were a lot of "ooh's and aah's” in agreement!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Everyone was so happy it was like a symphony of happiness!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>As soon as they each finished their vows there was cheering and clapping! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was the sweetest moment! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Then they exchanged the rings<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He said, <i>“See these rings.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They look very precious and wonderful. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are round and have no cracks.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But they mean nothing if something has not happened inside.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They symbolize that your love is complete.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is not broken.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Everyday when you look at them you remember the vows you have made.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i> The pastor prayed the rings would be blessed and sanctified. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>As they placed the rings on each other’s hands they expressed their love to one another to the absolute cheers of the guests! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>When the pastor pronounced them man and wife, they hugged one another </b>instead of the traditional kiss in the American culture. In Uganda, culturally, public displays of affection are not common, even in a wedding ceremony! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Then the congregation begins to sing, “Jesus Loves Me, Jesus Loves Me!” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Hilary, Florence, the aunt and the best man all knelt in prayer.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The parents and the main family members join them as one representative of either side prayed a blessing over them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We laid hands on the couple as the pastor concluded in prayer over them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>They are now officially married!!!!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> What an amazing experience!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Hilary and Florence go to the stage to formally sign the wedding document.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Then the pastor formally introduces them as Mr. & Mrs!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">There is a moment they take a love offering for the couple.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>There was an abundance of dancing, cheering and celebrating! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> This was followed by a lot of formal family and wedding party photos.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When all of that was finished the wedding party officially danced down the aisle to the awaiting cars!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Henry told me that the boys had just met most of the girls in the bridal party the day before.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>All of the coordinated dancing throughout the wedding day looked like they had been practicing for months!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">While the<b> wedding area was reset for the reception,</b> the bridal party went to take more photos.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We went <b>off site to a local hotel </b>that had a beautiful garden area.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Godfrey had Joan come with us to stay with me. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I had mentioned in Update #3 how they will always escort me places. <b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There is an act of honor and respect in this gesture.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Someone is always there to help me with whatever I need.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I get out of the car, they always come to greet me but also to carry whatever bags I may have in the car. They have such a spirit of hospitality and service. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Even when we went to the hotel for pictures, I noticed all the boys carried the girls bouquets!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>They love to care for one another and they love to serve.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> After we took photos at the hotel, they first took the bridal party back to the home. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The day of the wedding we found out we were short one car which added to the delays. Joan stayed with me and we waited for them to come back to get us.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>While we waited we actually met a deaf man!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> He was trying to raise money to go to a deaf conference in Kampala.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He was shocked when I began signing to him!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We actually had a great conversation and perfectly understood one another! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What a blessing that encounter was! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>The reception </b>at the home was an event in itself!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We had to hire more chairs and set them up on the side.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>More people showed up after the actual ceremony.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>By time the reception was in full swing we must have had close to 250 people! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The stage had been reset.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We had a beautiful white couch that was center stage for the bride and the groom. The entire bridal party sat around the tables set on the stage.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>They began the festivities with what was almost a “first dance”</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Our choir and band provided a time of worship.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This all led into a time of blessing the food.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Hilary and the committee were able to raise enough funds to provide a feast for their guests.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> To me it was cutting it a little too close!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But I am proud of Hilary for all he did that week with the wedding committee to pull it off!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There was more than enough for everyone!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>After the meal, the reception program began.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>While we were having an opening time of worship, the wedding party was busy changing clothes!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I didn’t realize that they had a <b>second set of clothing for the reception.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What was fun was the way they re-entered the reception! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They had coordinated another dance starting with the children.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Even the aunt and the best man led the adults in with the rest of the bridal party following.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When Hilary and Florence danced up the aisle you could just feel the <b>joy overflowing from their hearts!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What a celebration of love!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We then had the <b>cutting of the cake.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> They scaled down the size of the original cake to adjust to the final budget. There were a couple of larger cakes that were cut for those in attendance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Cake is not cut into large pieces like you would find at one of our wedding receptions.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Instead they cut the cake into bite size pieces. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">When the bride and groom served one another cake, Florence knelt on the ground out of respect for her husband.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When Hilary served Florence, she actually sat on his lap! Again, many sweet “oohs” followed after they served one another. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Hilary and Florence then went to their families to offer them a piece of wedding cake. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Our girls helped to serve the rest of the guests. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">They also had smaller<b> “groom cakes”</b> around 4”-6” round that they immediately wrapped up. <b>Those were gifts they presented to their families and to the ministries represented.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> They presented one to Raining Hope and also one to me as mum. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We had a <b>time of sharing</b> where a <b>representative from Hilary & Florence’s family each gave a word of encouragement</b> to the couple.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The ministry Florence works for, as well as Raining Hope and Cornerstone were well represented.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They asked me to share a word to the couple as a mum as well as a prayer to bless their marriage.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The reception was filled with cultural traditions that are much different than ours.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But the reception was more like a <b>worship service filled with absolute praise and joy!</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was very important to Hilary and Florence that their special day would <b>bring glory and honor to the Lord. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I signed a song as part of the time of blessing called,<b> “The Road That Never Ends” by Keali’i Reichel. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The words sum up the beauty of this day:</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">“Here we are in this holy place together.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Bearing witness as the two of you become man & wife</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">On this day, as you join in heart and spirit, You begin another chapter in the book of life</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Love...Is the circle that surrounds you.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You can find it on the faces of your family & friends</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Love...Let it wrap its arms around you.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>And guide you on your journey down the road that never ends.”</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">At the end of the night, as people began to leave, Florence’s mother who speaks no English came over to me and just hugged me and simply said, “Thank you”. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Her uncle as well who stood in the place of her dad greeted me with gratefulness.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Hilary’s father also came to share a word of thankfulness.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>As “parents” it was a very special moment.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Two wonderful families came together on this day.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Hilary and Florence are a testimony to God’s grace, love and goodness.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>God was the center of the festivities.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The Lord was honored and glorified in ways that can only be explained by the miraculous. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I wish you all could have been there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I hope this longer update gave you a glimpse into their special day.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>One more update and then photos will follow on the blog and Facebook. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Chapter 26 in my story, includes this new chapter beginning in Hilary & Florence's story.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What a privilege to be a part of what God is doing in their lives.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Thank YOU for being a part of this journey</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Kale,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Mama Kisakye<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-4040687445279456672023-08-31T13:38:00.002-07:002023-08-31T13:38:39.408-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #14 - August 30, 2023 - Wedding Flowers!<p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Many of you know that</span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> I love to do flowers for weddings.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> The florist who taught me years ago how to make bows (update #4), also taught me the basics in floral arranging. That developed into a side hobby of making bouquets, corsages and arrangements.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">So, I offered to help with the flowers for Florence & Hilary’s wedding.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Normally when I do flowers, the bride and groom only pay for the flowers.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">My labor is part of the wedding gift. </span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I had been in communication with Godfrey about where we were going to purchase the flowers. I had no idea what kind of flowers would be available.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There were discussions as to whether they would be “natural” flowers or artificial.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I discovered when I was there that if we used artificial that means we “rent” or “hire” the flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He said that he was sure they would want to use natural flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We had to wait until after the Introduction to start the process of finding flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Godfrey assured me that he knew where to go and we could get them even up to the day before.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Yes, that was as crazy as it sounds! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">In Update #13, I mentioned Godfrey & I had gone to Kampala.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I need to make a slight correction.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was actually the week in-between the Introduction and the Wedding, not the previous week.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>So we didn’t start looking for flowers until Tuesday, August 8th.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Godfrey took me to town where he said we should probably order them ahead of time. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Ha!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I told him I normally order flowers a month in advance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Not even knowing what flowers were available for me to work with<b> five days before the wedding</b> was definitely a huge challenge!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">When we went to town, flowers are not sold at a typical “florist” shop like we are use to.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We walked up to a small shop where the owner mainly had some supplies for weddings. When we asked about natural flowers, she walked us back to the side of the shop where she had some<b> buckets holding miniature roses and chrysanthemums.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That was all she had.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But because it was Tuesday, the flowers wouldn’t work for Saturday.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She wasn’t sure if they would get more flowers by the weekend even if we ordered. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">On Wednesday, Godfrey took me to another shop, but the owner was not there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Another vendor pointed to a phone number that was <b>written by a sharpie onto a part of a door frame!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Godfrey called that number and she said she was out of town until Monday!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He took me to one more place but they also were not able to help.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So<b> it was four days before the wedding </b>and I still had no idea where the flowers were going to come from!</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We had to stop the hunt for flowers to meet with Sylvia who was joining us at the market to buy some supplies.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>While we were there, we ran into Irene, Hope, Trust, Maria and Florence!! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I told Florence we were having issues with finding natural flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I asked her if it mattered if we used artificial flowers if we were not successful with finding natural flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She said, “Whatever you do I know it will be beautiful!”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Ha!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Pressure was on! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Irene has a beauty salon </b>and was an instrumental part of the Introduction and Wedding for both the girls and boys.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So I asked her if she had any ideas about where to find flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She said the only other option from the places Godfrey and I went to was to drive to Kampala where they have more variety. We didn’t have another full day to make that drive.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We were running out of options and were seriously considering renting artificial flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But I happen to mention the dilemma we were in to someone else at the home.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They said,<b> “You should ask Sylvia because she was in charge of the Send-Off decorations.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I think she has a contact.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> So on Thursday I asked Godfrey to check with Sylvia. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She said, “Sure.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Let me contact the person we used and see what they have.” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Sylvia went on her own to meet with the person who sells flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She began texting me photos of what he had and they were beautiful !<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Sylvia said we should buy what we needed now because he wasn’t going to get another order before Friday.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Godfrey wasn’t available to pick me up to bring me to town.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So Sylvia came to the hotel on a boda boda (motorbike used for transportation) to bring me to town. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I like to ride a boda boda at least once each trip as long as it is just to town.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I normally ride side-saddle because of wearing a dress.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When you ride on a boda boda the regular way, they called that riding like a man.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But try doing that wearing a long dress! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Even though I was totally comfortable riding side saddle, Sylvia was very nervous!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She has not been with me before when I have used a boda.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>So she told my driver to drive carefully and her driver to stay close to us in case I fall off.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She was going to jump off and rescue me!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Ha ha !<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">But we made it safely to town after a very enjoyable ride!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When we got to the man selling the flowers, some of what she showed me by text were already gone. Everything was in a big pile on burlap on the ground.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>No telling how long they were out of water!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But I was able to buy roses and chrysanthemums as well as a few other filler flowers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He wrapped up our order while we went to find a place to buy buckets to put them in. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">What I was missing was any type of greenery.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b> So Friday morning, just one day before the wedding, I had flowers but no greenery.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Sylvia came to the rescue again!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She went back into town and found another contact who said he had an order coming from Kampala.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If we ordered the greenery at that moment, he could catch his driver and it would be there by the afternoon.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Praise the Lord! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So I was able to order two types of greenery that worked perfectly! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">By <b>Friday afternoon, less than 24 hours before the wedding,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I finally had flowers and greenery!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Talk about cutting it close!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I gathered all the flowers and supplies and prayed that God would take it all and make<b> beautiful “bloom” from the little I had. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">One time on one of my first trips,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>we actually did have a very simple Christian wedding for a young couple they knew well. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I offered to do the bouquet.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That one was definitely a challenge because I didn’t have any of my correct supplies.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That was over 16 years ago where was even less availability of flowers in town! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I remember searching for anything I could use to make a bouquet. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The night before the wedding, I laid out all I had on the bed and prayed that God would<b> multiple it like the fish and bread in the story of the feeding of the 5000!</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was a miracle that I formed a bouquet out of the little I had! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The bigger surprise was when I went to deliver the bouquet, the bride had a dress she rented for me and I suddenly was her <b>matron of honor!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>I prayed a similar prayer over the flowers for this wedding.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>God truly did the <b>miraculous with only hours to spare!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> I was able to put together <b>four bridesmaids bouquets and one bridal bouquet. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> The other shock was the <b>total cost for all five bouquets was only about $50 USD!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Here at home you wouldn’t be able to get even one bouquet for that price. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Something you get used to when you are here is being<b> flexible.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Things can change without notice.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Before I came I asked Godfrey what colors the bride was using as a theme so I knew what color ribbon to bring.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It took awhile to get the final answer but I finally was told, <b>“royal blue & silver”</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So I chose the colors of the flowers to match the royal blue ribbon.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Good thing I used silver with just a thin royal blue accent.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When the bridesmaids came out of the cars, to my surprise their dresses were maroon! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Plus, I gave Florence her bouquet which she did hold momentarily.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But for the main ceremony she had been given an artificial bouquet that came with the rental of the wedding dress!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was perfect and beautiful!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So instead of one she had two bouquets!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Waiting until the last minute was definitely a challenge.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But the <b>bigger lesson was in trusting God through it all.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> I had no idea what the bouquets were going to look like because I didn’t know what was available.<b> But putting its in God’s hands first, He gave me all I needed to do my part with my hands.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">But the flowers paled in comparison to how beautiful Florence was and how handsome Hilary looked.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Together they were a picture of God’s grace and goodness! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The most important part of the day was they were becoming man and wife!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>The next update will be about the long awaited wedding!</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>After that just one more update as I got ready to head home!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><br />Kale,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Mama Kisakye<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"> </span></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-20764407040625422122023-08-31T13:35:00.000-07:002023-08-31T13:35:09.050-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #13 - August 25, 2023 - Friends and Reconciliation <p><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Hotel</b></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">In Update #3 I talked about the hotel.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I have stayed here since I first began coming to Uganda.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They truly are family.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b> The owners are Mr. & Mrs. Otile.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> They are an older couple who manage not only our hotel but the sister hotel next door.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I arrived I found out Mr. Otile had been sick the past three weeks. They were not sure what the main problem was.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I didn’t see him until the last week of my trip.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But when I finally did see him he was looking great and feeling stronger. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I normally see Mrs. Otile multiple times during the week.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But we kept missing each other.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I thought it was because she was going home to take care of Mr. Otile.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When we finally had time to just sit and talk, I found out why she was spending less time at the hotel.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They have <b>taken two very young children into their household.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> At this stage of life they should be enjoying grandchildren.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But now they are back to raising two toddlers who are both under 2 years old.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They were originally helping the mother of the two children.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But Mrs. Otile said, “the mother was going to throw them away,” meaning she was abandoning them. They decided to take the two young children in. They are keeping them very busy!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Her desire is to give these two young children a hope for a brighter future.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are<b> investing in their lives </b>so that they grow to have a<b> deep faith in Christ and make a difference in the world.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> It is inspiring to see the commitment they have made to help two who now don’t have a family become a part of theirs. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Please keep them in your prayers.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Their son,<b> Robert </b>is the General Manager of the hotel.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He and his wife, <b>Sylvia </b>are precious friends.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b> Andrew</b> is our dear friend who is like the Assistant Manager.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>His wife,<b> Rachel</b> works at the sister Hotel next door.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b> They are all dear friends of the Raining Hope family.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Most mornings I would see one of them when I went down for breakfast.<b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Selevus, </b>our friend who I mentioned in another update is the food and beverage manager.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They all attend and minister at <b>Glory Be to God Church.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> I will be writing about that in another update.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I didn’t see our friend, <b>Esther </b>until the last week I was there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She works in the financial department. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The only one who had left the hotel since COVID was our friend,<b> Apophia.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She used to manage the little business center.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I always would pop my head in to say hello. It was sad to not have her there. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Even though the hotel was not opened during COVID, they were able to continue operating because of the<b> catering side of their business.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> They catered food to the businesses that did remain open.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They also were able to do home food delivery service like our “doordash” or “grubhub”.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They said it was very eerie having no one at the hotel.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Things were so quiet.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But they found themselves going down to where I ate breakfast each morning and just enjoying the peace.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>One of them told me they take for granted the beauty of the Nile.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>COVID caused them to <b>slow down and stop</b> and be thankful for what the Lord blesses them with on a daily basis.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>KAMPALA</b></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">One of the days in-between the Send Off Celebration and the Introduction, Godfrey and I were able to squeeze in a day to drive to Kampala.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is tricky because of traffic jams.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You have to time everything just right.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Not only is there traffic in Kampala, but now it gets bad through the town of Mukono.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Thankfully because Godfrey use to live in Mukono and Kampala, he is an expert in working his way around the jams.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Most of the time that means rough dirt roads!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But it works! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I have friends,<b> Troy & Leanne</b> that are serving in another town about 5-6 hours away (depending on traffic) with another ministry.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They moved there about a year and a half ago.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Carol & Diane actually met them on vacation a few years ago.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They have been supportive of Raining Hope over the years.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I spoke to them by Zoom before they moved giving them as many tips as I could about the Ugandan life.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We met in Kampala at a restaurant near where they were having a meeting.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was good to be with them in person!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I had brought some of their favorite “Kind” granola bars as a reminder of home.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I am glad that we were able to find the time to meet them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was a just a good time of fellowship and encouragement!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We had a wedding meeting that night back at the house so we had to get right back on the road by 3:00 pm.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Thankfully, because of Godfrey’s local knowledge of how to get around the jams, we made it back right at 6:30 pm! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Sylvia, </b>one of our graduates actually lives in Kampala because she got a job in the city.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But she comes back to Jinja every weekend to lead worship for our ministry.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She told me she is trying to move back closer to our home. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Sylvia said where she lives the congestion is so bad, you continually breathe in the exhaust from all the automobiles. <b>Pray for her that she will be able to find another job and move closer to home!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>RECONCILIATION</b></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The wedding of Hilary & Florence had more purpose than we could ever imagine.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">As a background for those who are new to Raining Hope, whenever we have any <b>disciplinary issues, Godfrey works diligently at resolving them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Multiple conversations happen for as long as it takes and <b>most of the time are resolved.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Unfortunately, through the years there are some issues that despite many opportunities towards restoration, we were not able to resolve. Godfrey still keeps in contact with those individuals to try to encourage them and mentor them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We never give up hope.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I had written in a previous newsletter that Florence was one we had let go years ago.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But even before their engagement, the reconciliation process had already begun.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We had beautiful and private moments of forgiveness and restoration while I was there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I spent time with both of them separately and together .<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Those moments are some of the most significant of the whole trip. </b>To see how <b>God has worked in their hearts is inspiring.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> It is why <b>I wholeheartedly gave my blessing to them as a mum on their union. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The night of the wedding, Robert, the hotel manager blessed them with a <b>room to stay in at the hotel.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>They won’t go on a traditional honeymoon.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So this was extremely kind of Robert to provide them such a <b>sweet wedding gift.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They loved being able to be newlywed guests!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They decided they wanted us to have one more time together before I left for home.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So they asked to have breakfast together with me before I left for church.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What a precious time I had with the newly married Mr. & Mrs! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are adorable as a married couple!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But we had very deep conversations about their lives, where they believe God is leading them, and how very happy they both are.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>ESTHER </b>- This is Florence’s sister who also had to leave us at the same time as Florence.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She was one of the bridesmaids for her sister.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The reunion that I had with her was also significant.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We first saw each other at the Introduction.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b> When we hugged each other it was like the Lord was holding us together.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Throughout the two events, we were able to have a shorter but significant moment of reconciliation.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I found out from Florence that Esther was able to finish school and now is a school teacher for the primary age group!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She is happy and is doing well. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>RONALD -</b> He as well was released from our care a couple of years ago.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>To my surprise he showed up just before the wedding!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He was also in attendance the day of the wedding to support Hilary.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That moment of reunion was a beautiful, special time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He is attending a church where he is working with the sound system. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>RITA & SARAH</b> - These two were a part of our organization from the early days.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>About 10 years ago one of the other managers let them go.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We discovered later it was not for truthful reasons.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But Godfrey has kept in touch with them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In the case of Rita, she had gotten married but it was a bad situation.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When she had to leave, she needed a safe place to land. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Godfrey told me that <b>Raining Hope is also like a “shock absorber”in a car</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I asked what that meant, he said, “I have always told these ones that they can use Raining Hope as a safe place to come if they need it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He said that we can help <b>“absorb some of the shock” </b>of their situation.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She just needed a place to get her feet back on the ground.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Once in a while she travels back to us (lives in another town) just to be with the family and have much needed emotional support. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Both Rita and Sarah were there for the wedding. Rita was actually with us all weekend to help.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The reunion we had was significant.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>God truly had more going on than just the <b>union of Hilary and Florence</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The<b> RE-UNION of some of those that we had let go was inspiring. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>I witnessed repentant and humble hearts.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> One expressed they now see how we have been committed to <b>building a foundation that would last their whole lives.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>They didn't always see it when they were younger, but they see it now.<b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>They came back<b> thanking us for standing for truth and not compromising our faith. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>This is who we are as the Raining Hope family.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>We <b>stand for truth</b> raising a group of born again believers who will make a difference in the world for Jesus.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Hilary told me that he wants to become a teacher of the gospel.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He wants to teach <b>TRUTH from the WORD alone.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Because of all we have instilled in these students the past 17 years, he wants to do the same.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>He wants to influence others with the truth.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>He desires one day to go back to school to receive the next level of education which is a formal bachelor’s degree.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In the meantime, <b>he and Florence are a powerful team for the Lord, proclaiming His Word and reaching those around them for Christ.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are tremendous and a testimony to God’s glory and grace.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Deep before wide.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Hilary's example is confirmation of that <b>goal being fulfilled.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We are proud of all of them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">After all the updates, I will post formal thank you’s from the graduating students. They are forever thankful to each one of you for your prayers, support and encouragement throughout the years. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We are getting close!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Just a few more updates!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I pray that I will be able to send the rest of them before the end of next week. Thank you for reading, praying and sending words of encouragement! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>God is SO GOOD! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Kale,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">Mama Kisakye</span></span></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-37387394343552338102023-08-31T13:23:00.001-07:002023-08-31T13:25:53.238-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #12 - Aug 23 2023 - Jinja Town<p><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Main Street in Jinja town</b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> is where I do most of my shopping.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I would say it is about a 7-8 block of shops that I have frequented over the many years.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">At one end is the furniture shop we have bought various items for the house.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">At the other end I have gone to “supermarkets” where I buy more packaged snacks and spices. We buy the occasional ice cream cups for the kids at these local supermarkets.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">But I focus on on </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">long block where I buy most of my African crafts.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Over the years I have </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">made friends with specific shop owners</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">This has been important because so many of the shop owners will see a “muzungu” (anyone non-black) and will start with a higher price.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">It is very common and very expected to </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">“barter” prices down.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">They will start very high and sometimes it is obvious they are charging too much.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Unfortunately, our long time friend,<b> Rita, had to move back to her village during COVID.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Godfrey had checked on her and she wasn’t able to keep her shop open.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>For those who have known the story of Rita, I first became friends with her and her young daughter, Mary.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I began buying from her because she was fair and didn’t try to cheat me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We became such close friends, when she had her next baby, she named her after me!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She gave her my American name, Eydie.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I did not yet have the name Kisakye.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was a deep honor for them to make that decision.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I happen to be in town when Rita gave birth and was able to meet my namesake!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>The other shop I buy most of the African crafts from is Faith’s.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Since Rita was gone, I spent most of my time there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I was in Jinja last before COVID she had just lost her husband.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That was a very difficult time for her.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This trip I was able to meet her daughter and her grandson!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I went into town it was later one afternoon.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I bought some things from Faith, she thanked me because it was the first purchase of the day for her.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The things I buy to bring home are helping people to <b>literally feed their families.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The first time I learned this was from Rita.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I will never forget the time I bought some things and she was so thankful.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She said, “now I can go and buy milk for the family.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So many times they are dependent on the <b>sale of the day to buy the food for the evening. </b>Main Street is filled with shops that basically all have the same thing.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The competition is high.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>So my focus is helping the ones who have become family over the past 17 years. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">There is a new friend called <b>Sarah who I met through a friend, Ben</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Ben has made the “Raining Hope” bracelets for us before. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I did buy some things from her and paid her little bit more.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But she had some items no one else had.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Because of Ben, I told her that I know I spent a little more, but I wanted to help her.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But if she is fair to me I will come back.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The next time I went in, she was lower on prices and treated me more as a local because I was honest with her. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; color: #161a1e; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I also go to the <b>Source Cafe where my good friends, Irene & Justine work.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Not only is there a great craft shop there, but there is a wonderful little cafe.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I was surprised to find a few years ago they installed an espresso machine and started making lattes!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I introduced Godfrey to a<b> mocha latte. </b>You can imagine how much he enjoyed it after only ever having regular coffee!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When Sylvia comes and helps me with shopping, I will take her in there to get a <b>milk shake</b> as a thank you! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>On my last trip she experienced a milk shake for the very first time!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>How fun it is so see her savor each drop! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We go<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; color: #161a1e; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">the Source Cafe just a couple of times as more of a special treat and thank you. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">One day we were in the Source Cafe and<b> Irene’s daughter, Rachel </b>came in.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I couldn’t believe how much she has grown!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I have known her since she was a little girl.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b> She is now 20 years old!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Wow!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">The second week I was there I found out Irene had to take her to the doctor in Kampala.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>She is having lower back and right leg pain.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> She has gone to many doctors in Jinja and has had many tests.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She was referred to a doctor in the capital city.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The doctors still can’t find anything wrong with her.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>One day Godfrey and I were in the shop when Rachel was there.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>We had a time to pray over her for healing for her body.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Continue to keep Rachel in your prayers that the doctors would be able to diagnose her and she can get the right treatment. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p5" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b></b></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>THE MARKET<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">All of our shopping for the family is mainly done in an area that is <b>off of Main Street.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>This is where we <b>buy all of our food staples</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b> I LOVE shopping off the main path.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This is where all the locals shop. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Think of it as a HUGE swap meet or farmer’s market atmosphere.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There is a <b>large three story building</b> that was built before COVID.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is basically an indoor mall to give a place for all the vendors to sell their goods.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Before the stalls were all in an open field.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Rain would make things so hard on the shop owners because of the mud. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>The bottom floor is mainly “stalls” of food vendors. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This is where we find our vegetables, spices, fruits and fish. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If you go <b>up a floor</b> there are areas to purchase other items plus chicken and beef.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Buying a chicken is not like our grocery stores.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You pick them out alive but they are not that way when you go home!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The fish are <b>HUGE whole tilapia </b>that are probably three times the size of the fillets you can buy at home at the seafood counter in the grocery store.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>The upper floor is where you go to buy clothes.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This is very much like going to a local swap meet.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>All the vendors have their stalls of clothing.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When we are buying clothes for the family, this is where we go. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Clothes are in good shape and we always can find things everyone likes for the fraction of the cost.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Outside of the main building are shops that we frequent.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> There is one shop we buy the majority of our supplies.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Godfrey said the owner had asked about me because I hadn’t been there for so long.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She is known as <b>Mama Phiona.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Her daughter, Phiona works inside taking orders.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Godfrey said they don’t know the older woman’s name but she is just known as “mother to Phiona”!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Just like on Main Street, we have specific vendors we buy most of our food from.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We go around the corner down an alley to a vendor we buy <b>large bags of beans and posho.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Another place we buy<b> g-nuts (ground nuts) </b>used to make a paste for a sauce. We buy our beef at a stand just a few doors down from Mama Phiona’s.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This is not for the faint of heart! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">What is such a blessing is to watch the <b>process of how Godfrey buys the monthly food supply.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This time he brought Sylvia, Joan and Vivian.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We start at Mama Phiona’s shop and Phiona takes our order down.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is a fairly large order.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>After we pay for it, they are in the process of pulling all the items.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He had Sylvia stay there and make sure the order is fulfilled. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Then we went with the other two to the beef stand.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>After we ordered and paid, Vivian stayed behind while they cut up the beef.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We gave Joan some money with the list of vegetables and spices needed.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She went to the main building while Godfrey and I went to buy the beans and posho. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Godfrey began bringing some of them with him as they got older to help them understand about budgeting and purchasing food.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> It is part of how we prepare then for when they are ready to be on their own.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So many are not trained then don’t know how to deal with life when they move on.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>So to see how well a system he has in place was so fulfilling. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Because we don’t have the van any longer, we have to<b> hire a truck to transport all the items back to the house each month.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> So as everyone is responsible at each specific shop, all items go to the central area where the truck is parked.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We all end up back at Godfrey’s car when we are finished. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">At one point we had a very special bonus.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Sylvia and I walked a block away from the market area.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>There was a place where she bought fabric for one of her dresses.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In town they would sell a similar dress for 35,000 shillings ($10).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In the market you can buy the material for 13,000 shillings ($4).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She said the Main Street owners will buy from the market and then sell it at the higher price. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">So we walked to where she bought the material.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When we arrived, there was a woman on the ground sorting through the material pieces.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Sylvia thought she was the one selling.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When the woman looked up, <b>Sylvia said, “Mom”?! </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Seriously, it was Sylvia’s mom!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Her mother looked at me and jumped up to give me a big hug!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It turns out, Sylvia’s mom was trying to surprise me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She wanted to buy a dress for me as a thank you for all I have done for Sylvia.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She had asked Sylvia if she could join her in town to help.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But Sylvia told her she couldn’t that day because we would be very busy for the house.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Then we ended up there at the SAME TIME!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> Wow! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I had picked out a simple black dress that was already sewn (15,000 shillings or $4). Her mom took it from me and said, “I want to buy this for you”.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Such a humbling moment for me for her mom to want to do such a kind thing. It was another moment you want to say, “there is no need”.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b>But to see the smile on her face because she was able to do that was worth even more than the simple dress. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="background-color: white; font-kerning: none;">The kind gesture from Sylvia’s mom is a <b>symbol of what all the parents think of all the sponsors and supporters over all these years.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>The students as well as their parents are <b>forever thankful for all of you who care so deeply for them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"><b>We are able to buy all the food and supplies each month because of YOU.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b></span></p><p class="p7" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 18px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p8" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; color: #161a1e; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Jinja Town is a whole family in itself.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>More stories of other friends and family as well as the Wedding will follow soon! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p9" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; color: #161a1e; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Kale,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Mama Kisakye<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-88173032517718430922023-08-22T07:16:00.000-07:002023-08-22T07:16:16.655-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #11 - Aug 21, 2023 - Sign Language, Dogs & Cats<p><span style="font-size: medium;"> <b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; outline: none !important;">As a side note: </b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">This past weekend we had “Hurricane Hilary” pose a threat to California. By time it got to our area it was downgraded to “Tropical Storm Hilary”. Where we are at in Ventura, we received some rain on Sunday. But we were not hit hard. The bigger news was we did have an earthquake Sunday afternoon! It was a 5.1 earthquake centered in Ojai which is not too far from us. We had some shaken nerves and things falling off shelves. As I write this today (Tuesday) are still having smaller aftershocks. But for all those who checked in, we are fine and God’s protection was evident. Thank you for your prayers! </span></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">Our Raining Hope family loves to learn sign language!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> During one of the first devotion times, I played “More Than Able” by Elevation Worship<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="https://youtu.be/dQ1xxoP7NJk" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/dQ1xxoP7NJk</a>. They all worshipped while I signed the song. You could see how the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">words of the song were affecting their hearts.</b> Godfrey immediately wanted to listen to it again. To my amazement, I heard very softly the first few bars of the opening of the song<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">AFTER I turned off the music. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I said, “do you hear that?”, someone said it was<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">Dan on the keyboard!</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> He immediately picked up the WHOLE SONG. He began playing it on the keyboard and the family began singing the words! Your heart would have just melted to be in the room at that moment. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">It was powerful. </b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">We spent a few nights during our devotion time to learn the song without the track. They sang it beautifully. We added sign language for the chorus. I watched Sylvia lead the song and Henry lead the instruments. I was in awe of how it all came together. They harmonize like a beautiful symphony. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">Jireh<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>is one of Godfrey & Irene’s daughters. She is only 12 years old. She has taken an extra interest in learning sign language. I found her teaching some of the younger children from church the signs to the song all on her own. When I talked to her about it she said, “I really love it and want to learn more”. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">Trust and Hope<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>are their youngest two daughters who are 6 and 8. Someone told me that many times after church you can hear one of them “preaching” and the other “interpreting”. They pick up a water bottle or anything that resembles a microphone and just go back and forth! No doubt that they are copying their dad and Joan (who does a lot of the interpreting! But one Sunday afternoon, these two little ones said they wanted to sing. Trust and Hope started singing “Jehovah”. Then they began singing, “Jesus Loves Me”. A few more children from church ran over and instantly a choir was born! It was a sweet, sweet sound to the Lord! Then they decided to sing “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High!” I asked if they wanted to learn how to sign “Jesus Loves Me”. They were more than eager! I was surprised at how fast they picked it up. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">Hours later I was in the living room with Godfrey and Trust. I asked her if she remembered the signs from “Jesus Loves Me”. She proceeded to proudly start to sing the song, along with remembering ALL the signs! Even Godfrey was shocked! Trust is the youngest in the home. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">God is already using this 6 year old to proclaim the gospel loud and clear!</b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">I have been teaching the students sign language since the very first mission’s trip. They learned to<b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>sign Jeremiah 29:11. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Every time I hear this verse, I see them signing it and hear their voices with their Ugandan accents. They memorized this verse by remembering the sign language. Every once in awhile we go back to this verse and they can still sign it! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">I had noticed this time some of them are beginning to sign with more fluidity moving from one sign to the other. I realized they are starting to copy me more not just with the actual signs by in<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">HOW I sign music.</b> Maria came to me at one point and said she wants to learn the next step in signing how I sign. They are already doing it. They<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">believe the words they are interpreting</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and as they<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">worship the Lord</b>, it<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">comes out on their hands.</b> They know it is not performing but how someone who is deaf can experience the song by the way<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">they<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>interpret it. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">They feel the music. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">They internalize the words. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>At one point I saw Maria just walking around signing “More Than Able” with her eyes closed, worshipping the Lord with her hands. Moments like this are hard to adequately describe. My heart was overflowing. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;"></b><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS</span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">For those that may not know,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">years ago we acquired two German Shepherd watch dogs.</b> Even though we are in a gated compound, we were encouraged to either get guard dogs or hire security guards. They said the problem with security guards is they could easily be bribed. So we decided on the dogs. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="outline: none !important;">Unfortunately, one year someone threw poisoned meat over the fence and one of the dogs died. We have since replaced that dog and also have security cameras. </span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;">The dog who died was named Scooby</b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>(yes after Scooby Doo). The remaining dog I had named<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;">Pax (Peace). </b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The newest dog is still fairly young. They said his name was<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;">Jim!</b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;"> I asked why “Jim”? Their response was Jim was stubborn! Not sure why they associate that name with being stubborn! </span></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">While I was there we gave Jim another name! <b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I began calling it “Scooby Two!”</b> Ha ha! They loved that! I am sure the dog is totally confused now! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">They don’t let the dogs out during the day. They keep them in their “kennel” so when night comes they are<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">alert as security dogs.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> They use to keep them in this very small dog house. But we had built a big chicken coop enclosure next to where we built the new kitchen. Before COVID we were able to start raising chickens to have some<b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>self-sustainable income selling eggs. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But COVID came and the feed for the chickens became outrageously expensive. They were spending more than they were making. So Godfrey said they had to sell the chickens and we will try again once the feed costs normalize. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">For now the dogs are happy because they have a huge area to roam around in. You don’t hear them during the day much so I assume they are resting to do their job at night. <b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are excellent security for the family. </b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">We also have many cats that are on the compound. They wander around the neighborhood during the day and end up at the house at night. In Uganda, animals like<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">dogs and cats are not looked at as domesticated animals. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They don’t see them the same way we look at pets. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">The dogs are security and the cats are a bother. </b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">Then I come in as the<b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“dog & cat whisperer”!</b> Ha ha! There was a little baby kitten in the house and I was so excited! I began being nice to the cats and they were amazed. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>At meal time, one of the calico mama cats came and just sat right by me. The cats were just happy someone was petting them! They said, “They are only coming around because you are here”! By time I left, the attitude towards the cats had changed. You could almost hear the cats in their meows saying, “Finally! Thank you for coming!” Ha ha! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">I have at least four more updates for Chapter 26. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>This will include Shopping in Town, the Hotel, Sunday Services, Reconciliation, Wedding and my Send Off. It is amazing so much happened in the short three weeks. I am working as quickly as I can so I can get to posting photos. Thank you for reading, praying and encouraging. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">I couldn’t imagine being on this journey with anyone other than you! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">Kale, </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">Mama Kisakye </span></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-64412184726735047392023-08-21T12:51:00.001-07:002023-08-21T12:52:02.542-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #10 - August 20, 2023 - Family Time<p><br /></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Now I am going to go back in time and fill in the details as to what was happening on a day to day basis! Once I finish all the updates, I will be posting photos on the blog on our website. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Our days were filled from morning until night working on one of the three major events. </span><span style="outline: none !important;">But there was so much more happening on a daily basis! I am going to </span><b style="outline: none !important;">highlight by specific activities. </b></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">FAMILY</span></b></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">In-between the three main events, we squeezed in a lot of <b style="outline: none !important;">quality family time! </b> We had permission to take our students out of school for the first weekend for the Send-Off. Even Vivian had special permission to take the whole weekend off of work. Sylvia now lives in Kampala where she works. She was able to take the full three weeks off so she could stay in Jinja while I was there. But as soon as Monday came, the students had to return back to school. We still have some in boarding school so they had to return back as they were preparing for end of term exams. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Our students go to school from about 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday. They absolutely LOVE school. They loved telling me about their courses. Henry even brought the computer out and tried to explain in detail about a computer program he had developed! Even though it was like a foreign language to me, I was completely impressed! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The time we had in the evenings were precious moments. <b style="outline: none !important;">Each evening was dinner together </b></span><b style="outline: none !important;">at the home.</b> Just about every dish starts with cooking oil, onions and tomatoes. They add local spices and salt. Then they add either beans, spaghetti (or macaroni as they call it), green beans, peas, potatoes (or irish). Once a week they will have tilapia. A few times a week they add chicken or beef. We have rice a lot as well. The fresh fruits are amazing! Pineapple is so sweet and juicy! We also will have watermelon and local jackfruit. Local dishes such as posho (maize flour mixed with water) and matoke (cooked and mashed) are also staples. And we must not forget the ever popular and delicious chapati!! I love my Ugandan food! I bring home the spices so I can cook like this for awhile so my stomach can adjust back to American food. Mainly I just miss it! </div><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">All of our meals are cooked outside in the <b style="outline: none !important;">newly constructed kitchen. </b> One of the requirements of the<b style="outline: none !important;"> first compliance in 2018</b> was to have a more structured area to cook. Before they just cooked outdoors over charcoal or firewood. It is still pretty much the same but now under a covered area. It is still opened because firewood and charcoal are still used. We have no electrical appliances like stoves or ovens. I love the food that emerges from this humble kitchen! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">Each evening Raining Hope has devotion and prayer time from 8:00 pm-9:00 pm </b>(except Fridays & Sundays because of church activities). While I was there the times were different each night but we didn’t finish the day unless we had that time of prayer together. Normally, when I am there we use that time for a short term Bible study. But this time things were different because of the preparation for the three events. We were actually having dinner after 10 pm a lot of evenings. I would lead a short devotion and we would end evenings in prayer. Most nights I was returning to the hotel close to midnight. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The other thing that was significant was the time I spent just<b style="outline: none !important;"> talking to the students.</b> They are all so much older now. The only ones who are elementary school age are Godfrey and Irene’s children. Most of them are now in their late teens and 20’s. So the conversations are drawn towards their courses, dreams and futures. We laughed hysterically around the dinner table about so many various stories. We had serious talks about dating, which is a huge shift since I was here last! Because of the wedding and challenges with the Introduction and budgets, it was a perfect time to help them BEFORE they fall in love! Hilary & Florence’s wedding helped to set a strong precedence as to having simple and meaningful weddings in the future! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">What really warmed my heart was seeing how much they have grown in their faith and their walk with the Lord. <b style="outline: none !important;">These young adults LOVE the Lord. </b> They are influencing their friends and family with the Gospel of Christ. <b style="outline: none !important;">Their dreams all include wanting to make a difference in the world for Jesus. </b></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Our desire for Raining Hope to go<b style="outline: none !important;"> “deep before wide” </b>was always about <b style="outline: none !important;">investing in the few who we call family. </b> It has never been about numbers. We wanted to <b style="outline: none !important;">pour our hearts into discipling the 25-30 family members first.</b> Then in time, they are going to be the ones to reach out and make lasting change as authentic followers of Jesus Christ who stand for truth. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">It is happening. </span></b></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">These students are <b style="outline: none !important;">solid, humble individuals who shine with the love of Jesus inside and out. </b> I couldn’t be a prouder mum! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; outline: none !important;"><span style="outline: none !important;">I took </span></span><b style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; outline: none !important;">MANY PHOTOS </b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; outline: none !important;"><span style="outline: none !important;">that will be posted after I am done with the updates. Since I have been gone for so long, I needed updated photos…and they </span></span><b style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; outline: none !important;">LOVE POSING!</b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; outline: none !important;"><span style="outline: none !important;"> We went up on the roof of the main building which is a large flat service. We has many </span>impromptu<span style="outline: none !important;"> and fun photo sessions! The joy you see in their faces is contagious! </span></span></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Just before I left for Uganda , I discovered my regular SLR camera had a broken lens. We ordered another one and I thought it was going to work. When I arrived, I was disappointed that the new lens also wasn’t connecting right. I was left with just the telephoto lens. So I used my iPhone for most of my photos and videos and now have to get them transferred. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">BUT, the house actually has a camera now that Godfrey received from one of the families of one of the pastors who had passed away last year. So I gave Sylvia one of my SD cards and asked if she would take photos during the time I was there and just give me back the SD card. That camera also has only one working lens and it was also a telephoto one. I gave Sophia my camera with the telephoto lens and had her do the same. So, it will be like Christmas for me! <b style="outline: none !important;"> I have no idea what photos are on those two cameras! </b></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">We also had a <b style="outline: none !important;">photographer for the Send-Off Celebration. </b>He puts all the photos he took on a flash drive. So I was able to give him extra shillings to make an additional flash drive for me to take home. So photos will be coming! It will be worth the wait from what I have already seen! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">My time with family was priceless. I am just giving you some of the highlights of those times. But pictures are worth more than a thousands words! You will love them. When I begin posting on the blog I will let you know. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">There is a lot more still to come! Thank you so much for investing in the time to read the long updates! I pray you are catching a glimpse of how God answered your prayers for this journey! </span></div><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Kale, </span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Mama Kisakye </span></div>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-81070706599486963872023-08-19T03:14:00.005-07:002023-08-19T13:43:48.938-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #9 - August 15, 2023 - Home<p><br /></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">It is very hard to believe that I am on my flight headed back to Los Angeles International Airport. We are currently over Canada with a little over four hours to go. On this flight from Qatar to Los Angeles, I am back in seat 19H. I am thankful for the comfort of a familiar seat! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">With every major event now accomplished, it came time to get ready to leave. God receives all the glory for this journey! We have so much to CELEBRATE! As always, it is difficult to deal with the emotions of leaving. Even though I have had about 24 hours of flight time to write, I couldn’t get all the millions of thoughts going around in my head to come together until now.</span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">We stopped at the house on our way to the airport. It was a smaller group of family there because most had already left for school. We had one more time of prayer for safe travel on the road to Entebbe and the flight home. Sylvia spoke on behalf of the whole family. She got so emotional she couldn’t finish. We had a very sweet time of prayer and extra “bonus hugs” </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Joan had done a very special thing for us. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">She packed breakfast to go which they call “takeaway”!</b> It was perfect because I didn’t have time to have breakfast packed for Godfrey and I at the hotel. This may sound like an odd thing to eat for breakfast, but they made this special dried tilapia “soup”. Soup to them is really “sauce” to us. We had bought dried tilapia at the market. I thought it was going to just be dried fish like a jerky. But they cooked it in the base sauce of cooking oil, onions, tomatoes and local spices. It was delicious! We didn’t even stop for chicken on a stick on the road side because the fish was enough! Joan also made chapati which is one of my favorite things. Our takeaway breakfast was made complete with fresh bananas and coffee in “take away” or to go cups. It was a sweet moment as we smiled amongst tears. When Godfrey and I left the compound and began driving away it became so real. Tears flowed as we drove in silence with his hand on my shoulder telling me it will be ok. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">We left about 30 minutes after he wanted to get on the road. But<b style="outline: none;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>God answered your prayers.</b> Thankfully, the traffic jams through Mukono and Kampala were not as bad as they could have been! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">This trip was<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">so focused on the three major events</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>that we didn’t have much time to focus on other things we had wanted to do. So the long drive helped us to catch up on other ministry needs. </span><span style="outline: none;"> </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><b style="outline: none;">The Entebbe Airport is in the midst of a MAJOR renovation.</b> They said by the end of this year it should be done. There are still familiar parts of the airport that those who have been there would recognize. But so much has been upgraded and computerized. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">For years now, they haven’t allowed cars on the upper level to drop off passengers. We park in the lower parking lot and have to walk up to the terminal. It is partially uphill. Godfrey was thankful one of the attendants in the parking lot helped us push the luggage cart! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">I think we arrived at the airport at 12:30 pm. It took only 3 hours to get here! One of the huge blessings is the new Entebbe Expressway which is a bypass through much of the old roads we used to drive through. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The flight was at 5:30 pm. Normally they don’t even let you in the building until three hours before. I thought we were so early I would have to wait outside for a couple of hours. They now have a huge tent that helps shield the sun and heat. Godfrey felt bad leaving me there but they won’t let you stay unless you are a ticketed passenger. So we said our difficult goodbyes in the tent and I was prepared to wait outside alone. The good news was they said they would let us in at 1:45 pm. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">But God answered prayer and they allowed us to enter the building to go through security at 1:15 pm! I was towards the front so I got in quickly. At that point many people were departing on an Emirates flight. Because we were so early,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">no one was there yet for the Qatar flight! </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When they showed me where check-in would be, I was the first one in line! In fact, no one else joined me in line for about 45 minutes! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The person who checked me in said that it was<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">very good we arrived extra early. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She said later as it gets closer to departure, the lines to get through security can be so long they end up outside that tent! She said we did the right thing. There was no line going through passport control. But being around so many people who were traveling home, began my reverse culture shock. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">As I sat on the plane and we began to take off, the tears just flowed. I will miss my Ugandan home. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">But I am thankful to be on my way back to my family and friends back home! </b></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><b style="outline: none;">Chapter 26 has been an exciting addition to my story of how the people of Uganda have changed my life. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">Graduation and Send Off</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>of five of our students was the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">confirmation of all the 17 years of trusting God through the highs and the lows.</b> The<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">Introduction and Wedding<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>of Hilary and Florence was a story in itself. It was a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">beautiful picture of all that God is doing in the lives of these precious individuals</b>. They are a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">living, breathing walking testimony of God’s grace, mercy and LOVE. </b></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Thank you for your prayers, support and encouragement! But<b style="outline: none;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>we are not done yet with Chapter 26! </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I still have more to update you on. I still have many stories of the Raining Hope family and all that we did in-between the three main events! Plus the Wedding Celebration was BEAUTIFUL ! </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><b style="outline: none;">I will be sending updates the next week to complete Chapter 26. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I will then go back to the blog and add photos. I thank those who have sent me messages that the updates have made you feel like you were right there with me. I accomplished what I set out to do! <b style="outline: none;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The photos will make the updates become even more alive like putting on those special glasses to watch a 3D movie!! </b></span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span face=""lucida console", sans-serif">I am doing well at home. I am laying low for the next couple of weeks, trying to process all that God has done. He has done exceedingly more than we asked or could have imagined. We have aa good, good, Father! </span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">More soon! </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Kale, </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Mama Eydie Kisakye </span></p></div>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-80664723263003575572023-08-19T03:05:00.002-07:002023-08-19T03:05:42.938-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #8 - August 14, 2023 - Heading Home<p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">It is hard to believe that it is Monday, August 14th and I am getting ready to head to the airport!</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">The last week preparing for the wedding kept us all busy from morning until late at night.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">God answered our prayers!</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">It was a beautiful wedding that honored our Lord!</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I am still in awe of the day and the glory it brought to our God.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">We will leave the hotel around 8:30 am.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">It will take about 4 hours to get to Entebbe Airport.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Since it is Monday, the traffic jams can be terrible in Mukono and Kampala.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I have missed a plane once from here because we got stuck in jams.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">We will go to the house for quick hellos.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">They had a big “send-off” for me last night.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Many have to go back to school this morning for exams.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I will be sending updates and photos from home.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Even though I will be writing from home, the memories will be fresh and just as impactful.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">The wedding alone left me speechless.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I ask for prayer as I return home. It is not tiredness even from the long travel. </span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I always go through a time of “reverse-culture shock” coming from this environment.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I will spend the next couple of weeks adjusting at home and catching up on updates. Emotionally, I need to spend time processing all that He has done.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Thank you for joining me on my journey.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">It has been exceedingly more than I could have imagined. </span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Here are my return details.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">I will be in touch once I am home. </span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><b>RETURN</b><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">Monday, August 14, 2023<span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">Qatar Airlines Flight 1384<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">Depart Entebbe - 5:30 pm<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">Arrive Qatar:<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>11:00 pm<span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">5 hours & 30 minutes<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Qatar Airlines Flight 741<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Depart Doha - 1:20 am (August 15, 2023)<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Arrive LAX - 7:25 am (August 15, 2023)<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p5" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="background-color: white; font-kerning: none;">16 hours & 5 minutes</span></p><p class="p6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p7" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Kale for now from my Ugandan home,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p7" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Mama Kisakye<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-68622563234016297402023-08-09T23:32:00.000-07:002023-08-09T23:32:33.252-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #7 - Wednesday, August 9, 2023 - Church Services & Wedding Plans <p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;">I want to take some time to go backwards to the</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"> </span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important;">week in-between the Send Off Celebration & the Introduction.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;">Instead of going day by day, I am going to highlight by subject. Thank you for all those of you who are sending encouragement emails in response to the updates. I appreciate every person who has taken the time to write back. I appreciate EVERYONE for praying as you read the updates. God is answering prayer. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Before I take a look back, I want to lift up a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">special prayer for a friend named Cathy. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She is a server here at the hotel who I have known for years. The unfortunate news is this morning she had a miscarriage. I found her 7 months pregnant when I arrived and she was so happy to tell me the news. When I was leaving breakfast, Selevus the Food & Beverage manager and another staff member named Jennifer had just returned from the hospital. They gave me the very sad news that Cathy had just lost the baby. They are family here. We are all very devastated. Please keep Cathy in your prayers. Thank you for caring. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;">CHURCH SERVICES</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>- The first weekend I was here, we were still recovering from the Introduction. Godfrey came to the hotel early on Sunday without my knowing because he was on a secret mission! </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">The first morning I was here I noticed a beautiful<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">turkey</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>running around the compound. He warned me it was not destined to lived much longer! I made a good decision to not give it a name and get too attached! He said that the turkey was part of the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">“afterparty”!</b> It wouldn’t have been enough for the Send Off meal. So the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">afterparty was just for the family. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Godfrey brought the turkey to the hotel because they will cook things for us that require an oven. All of our cooking is done over firewood or charcoal in pots. The hotel graciously cooked our turkey in one of their outdoor ovens. I was very sad to see the beautiful turkey gone, but his sacrifice was not for nothing! It was delicious the way it was prepared. It was an absolute treat for the family. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #161a1e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">I shared a greeting during the services. It was good to be back in fellowship with our Raining Hope Ministries family. I signed the song<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">“Believe It” by Jon Reddick</b>. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="enhancr_card_1873485582" href="https://youtu.be/0-z1OK54Ae0" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">Jon Reddick - I Believe It (The Life Of Jesus) [Official Lyric Video]</a></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Part of the song says,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="outline: none !important;">“It’s not just a story. It’s a living breathing walking testimony”</i></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">At the Commissioning I had talked about how the five students all had their own individual stories that were not ending with graduation. This is the beginning of a continuing STORY of how God is using them to make a difference. This is true of all those that are a part of Raining Hope Ministries. That includes you as well! </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Godfrey preached a great message on being brothers and sisters in Christ. It was a powerful message. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Godfrey’s youngest daughter is named<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">Trust.</b> She is 6 years old. Last time I was here she was only three. I thought it may take some time for her to warm up to me. But she immediately began following me and staying close. During the church services she came and sat right next to me. At one point she whispered, “I have to go wash my face”! I said, “Ok”. She went off with a smile, and came back with a wet face! Whenever she does anything she makes sure she tells me where she is going. She is so polite and very considerate especially as a 6 year old. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">I LOVE<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">worshipping with the Raining Hope family! </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Henry, Dan and Joel lead on the instruments. They have improved so much since I was here the last time. Sylvia and Hilary are two of the main worship leaders. Joan and Tamarah are also part of the choir. The way they harmonize is a sweet, sweet sound unto the Lord. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Those of you who have been a part of us for awhile, you may remember the story about a young man named<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">Michael who has MS.</b> He now is in a wheelchair and his disease has taken more of a toil. But he saw me and raised a smile. His speech is a little bit slower. But he said with confidence, “I am still praying and hoping one day to walk again!” He was so filled with joy even though his circumstances have not improved. Two young men were with Michael who he called, “his drivers”. It was a very old manual wheelchair that they push him all the way back home in. When he was there this past Sunday, his drivers were two little children probably 8 or 9 years old. I watched them push him home. That is community. That is family. </div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;">WEDDING<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>- Right after the morning service, there was a wedding committee meeting. It is very interesting here. They have been simultaneously working on the Introduction and the Wedding. BUT, most of the wedding planning happens after the Introduction. Because we only have one week in-between both events, this week was very full. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">The wedding ceremony is the responsibility of the man. They will be married here at Raining Hope. The vows are what is the most important part of the ceremony. They want their wedding to bring glory and honor to God alone. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">There will be another pastor who will actually do the wedding. Godfrey said that when weddings are done at Raining Hope, it is kept short and to the point! The reception will also be at our compound. This is where we will have more speeches and a program. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Just like the Introduction, Hilary hasn’t had enough funds come in from his friends and family to cover the cost of the wedding. So they meet daily to try to see what to cut out of the budget. That is how things are done here when it comes to these events. They receive money all the way up to the day of the wedding. But some things like food have to be purchased beforehand. They have already cut the food budget down from what they originally planned. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br style="outline: none !important;" />As of today (Wednesday), they are about a third of the way there with the food budget. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Even with the unknown of the budget, they are at peace trusting God as they adjust each day. I am so proud of all of them, especially Hilary and Florence. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Something that has been funny is the weather has been almost perfect here … for me! <span style="outline: none !important;"> It has been in the high 70’s to low 80’s in the day. Early mornings are in the high 60’s. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;">We had rain last week that came at perfect times. But as soon as the weather dips into the low 70’s, they all start to get really cold! Don’t even talk about the 60’s! To them we might as well be in the snow! They will start to wear sweaters, jackets, scarves and hats. They can’t believe I am still a little warm when it is low 70’s and have the fan running! </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">One night, Hilary, Florence and I met outside on the grassy area. It was the first time I had seen Florence since the last time I was here. It was a beautiful time for us as we reconciled the issues from the past and looked forward towards their future together. It is the time I gave my blessing to them as a mum. I found out later that Hilary was REALLY COLD! He saw I was fine so he said, “I had to be fine too because I saw you were being strong…but I was VERY COLD!” </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">I tell you that story because the evening after the Introduction, it was actually colder that night at the home than when we sat outside together. Hilary came walking into the house wearing a short sleeve shirt. I said to him, “you must be cold”! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">His answer was so very sweet and sums up this week. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>He said beaming with a huge smile, “No, I can not be cold. After yesterday’s Introduction, I am keeping so warm inside!” He is so in love and so happy! </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">So as we are winding down to the last weekend before I head back home to California,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">please keep the wedding in your prayers.</b> Pray for the continued preparations, for provisions, especially for food, and that God would be glorified in all that is said and done. <b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Pray for me as I am doing the flowers. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Basically it is only the bridal bouquet and four bridesmaids bouquets It is Wednesday and we still don’t have any flowers! It is not like home at all. Natural flowers are not in abundance. The only thing they really have are miniature size roses and some chrysanthemums. Even now opting for silk flowers means going to Kampala. It is definitely a challenge! I look forward to seeing what God provides for me to use to transform little into beautiful bouquets! </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Kale, </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;">Mama Eydie Kisakye </p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-17045212278251569542023-08-08T08:26:00.004-07:002023-08-08T08:27:34.188-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #6 - Saturday, August 5. 2023 - Introduction Ceremony<p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><i style="outline: none !important;">Internet connections - <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i></b><i style="outline: none !important;">I have been trying to outsmart yahoo and change my password frequently before it locks me out. Then it takes longer to try and convince yahoo it is really me. Today I was able to send out Update </i></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important;">#5 before I left for the introduction and nothing kicked back yet. Let’s keep praying! </i></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><i style="outline: none !important;"></i><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><i style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">But now Facebook is another issue! I tried posting photos and a post about the introduction. It is not posting at all. Then I tried posting without photos on Sunday when I was on my way to church. It sat in “this is taking a long time to post” mode and then said it couldn’t be posted. So I am believing that I will send what updates I can but photos will have to wait until I get home. Sorry! </span></i></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Because there is so much to talk about that happened all week, I am going to fast forward to the Introduction. I will come back to praise God about the activities of last week! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Most of last week centered on<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">preparing for the Introduction</b>. Because they had not received all of the funds that were on their Introduction budget, they were making decisions especially about the dowry. The bride’s family is responsible for the actual Introduction ceremony which includes the meal prepared for the guests. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">For Hilary as the groom,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">the whole budget is about the dowry being presented to Florence’s family which is his responsibility. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This had been negotiated by both families but it is the bride’s family that tells the groom what they require in order to give permission for their daughter to get married. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">For example, two of the largest items Florence’s family requested was one cow (many families would require four) for the representative for the father (who has passed) and a sofa set for the mother. Each one of these was approximately $400. By the end of the week, Hilary didn’t have enough for both. So they made a decision to purchase just the sofa for now. They had to call the family on Friday and let them know what has come in and what we will come with. This is important because there are cases if you don’t come with everything on the budget list, they refuse to give permission and the wedding can not proceed. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The week was spent in meetings, talking to friends and family about helping (which is how they raise the funds for the wedding) and adjusting the list. By time Thursday came they had a good idea of what they were working with. Friday they began purchasing the necessary gifts. They were shopping and wrapping all the way up until it was time for us to leave on Saturday! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Even though Hilary did not raise enough to complete the list, they were satisfied for Saturday as long as they<b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>complete the whole list at a future time. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This way the Introduction can continue and the wedding will happen next week. I am not sure how much is left but I know it includes a cow and goats! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The Introduction is a very “formal” event. All the female members of the groom’s family are required to appear dressed in a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">“Gomesi”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>which is a floor length dress with a square neckline and short, puffed sleeves. Two buttons appear on the left side of the neckline. The dress is tied with a sash that is the length of the dress and is very think and heavy. A<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">“kanga”</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>is tied under the garment to make sure the fabric doesn’t stick to the body. It is somewhat like a petticoat but it in itself is also very thick! One of the girls at the hotel said it makes the dress full and beautiful. I told her in America women want to look thinner, yet the gomesi is the opposite! The men wear a “<b style="outline: none !important;">kanzu",</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>a white or cream colored tunic that is an ankle or floor length garment. <b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The men in Uganda consider it the most important dress.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is worn with a suit jacket, blazer or sport coat. (some information taken from Wikipedia). Our boys had the kanzu and Godfrey let them borrow his sport coats. </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">There was debate as to whether I needed to wear a Gomesi. I had a fancy enough “Kitenge" (my other African dresses) that Godfrey said would work. But while shopping for food on Thursday, the girls said they were all excited about seeing me in a traditional Gomesi. I really wanted to follow the cultural expectations. I knew the cost would be higher for one of these dresses compared to the ones I normally have. But they started talking about how we could<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">“hire”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>one for the event. I thought they meant hire someone to make one for me which would be less expensive. We finally figured out the work<b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“hire” for them meant “rent”for me! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>They said most people can’t afford the dress so they just rent it! The decision was made and we decided we would go on Friday and find one for me to wear! It turns out they were going to hire theirs as well! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-family: Arial; outline: none !important;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;">Sylvia, Joan and Sophia took me to a bridal shop in town. I tried on just two. The first one was a beautiful royal purple gown! As soon as I put it on the girls were so happy! We almost just settled on that one until I tried on the other one! It was a beautiful black gown with a lot of sparkle. The sash was white covered with sequins that were </span>iridescent! <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; outline: none !important;"> It was a hard choice but as soon as they say it they said, "that is the one"! Renting all three pieces only cost 45,000 shillings ($12). I asked if you buy something like this one what would be the cost. They said it could be upwards of minimum 300,000 shillings ($84). You can see the difference that makes for a Ugandan. </span></span></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Joan came to the hotel to help dress me on Saturday. I went to the home before going to the Introduction because not everyone is invited. We were only allowed to have ten people from Raining Hope. Especially since many of our students are in school during the day or at boarding school that didn’t leave many back at the home. So I went to see the ones at the home before heading out. They LOVED that I was in a Gomesi! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">It is hard to adequately express the whole process from beginning to end. It was unlike anything I have been to before. Our Raining Hope Ministries were a part of the organizing committee. We were allowed more people from the church to attend. Between our family and the church, we gathered into about 4 cars and proceeded to the village of Kakira (about a 20 minute drive). We met up at a place nearby the bride’s home with the rest of Hilary’s family and friends as we needed to all show up together. Last minute they were still collecting funds for some of the “envelopes” that would be presented to the bride’s family. On Hilary’s side we had about 40 people. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Once at Florence’s home, we lined up and were formally ushered in. The event was outside under rented tents. Many times Introductions are smaller, private events inside the home. But others opt to have it outdoors because of space. Many of the villagers come to glance in and watch. We had many, many children observe from afar. On Florence’s side there were about 150.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">By time we arrived I think it was close to 4 pm. The whole event including a meal lasted about four hours. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Most of the Introduction was in the local language of Luganda and in Kinyarwanda, Florence’s language as a Rwandese. They didn’t have an interpreter for English as I would have been the only one needing it! Joan and Sylvia sat on either side of me and interpreted the most important things. But most of it I just sat and soaked in and observed. I understood most of what was happening. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">They ushered in various groups of her family which included children, aunts, uncles, brothers and sisters all individually. Each group had matching attire and danced their way in with traditional cultural dance. Each individual in each group is presented with one of those “envelopes” as a small token of appreciation. What was interesting is the mother stays inside the house the entire time! That is one part of the tradition I would have a hard time with! </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">At one point in the ceremony, after the aunts are ushered in, the main aunt called a “senga” is accompanied by another aunt as they dance and<b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>search for the groom.</b> I didn’t realize Hilary had been way in the back with the other groomsmen. Once they find him, he basically responds that<b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“he is the one”.</b> They bring him back to the front to the seat of honor where he stays for the rest of the service. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">The bride finally “dances” her way in accompanied by her family. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She looked so beautiful! This truly was the equivalent of a wedding. She was in her first traditional dress out of four that she would wear that evening. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">In the scope of the four hours, there was a lot activity including the presenting of a basket from the groom to the bride at the beginning of the ceremony. At the end the bride then presents a basket to the groom. Each item in the basket represented something significant. There are various fruits, sweets, soda etc. There was the presentation of an engagement ring to Florence. Florence gave Hilary the gift of a watch. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Then came the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">presentation of the dowry.</b> Wow. It was so very interesting! Hilary’s family (including Raining Hope) goes to the truck where they had loaded all the dowry. Each item (food, soap, rice, water, soda etc.) was beautifully wrapped individually in boxes. They carried each item on their heads back to the front as an offering from the groom to the bride’s family. The first item was a suitcase for Florence which symbolizes her bringing her things from her home to her new home with Hilary. The last item was the sofa set for the mom which is the largest gift. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">They had me stay seated and Sylvia stayed with me as well as Godfrey. It was overwhelming to see all the gifts being presented. Because Hilary was so short of items in the dowry, it was good to see how God multiplied what we did have! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">After the presentation of the gifts, the meal is served to all In attendance. The main family members (including Godfrey) go inside to eat the meal. This is where the final negotiations take place for the dowry. Thankfully, Florence’s family accepted what was brought so the official letter giving permission for her to marry Hilary was signed! Culturally, they said there are times it is not granted. Hilary said that moment is a very tense time while you wait on the final ok! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Last thing is the cutting of the cake! By then many have left because the meal had been served! Plus it was getting dark and late. Hilary then serves his side cake and Florence her side. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">By then things are over and come to a close. Now everything is focused on the wedding! Hilary’s side is in charge so we have a lot to do this week. Because of the budget, they have had to cut back a lot. The wedding and reception will be held at our home. The dress code is not as formal. It will be more of a church service as they become man and wife. He is busy raising funds mainly for the meal that is the main part of the reception. He is already cut back on the size of the cake. Here this is how things work. The initial budget is what they desire. But all depends on how much they raise. It is not uncommon that decisions are made even the day of the wedding! </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">When we drove away I marveled at the honor of being a part of such a beautiful event. Hilary is SO HAPPY. We went back to the home to spend time with those who came back from school and could not attend. Hilary had joined us so we celebrated together! Thank you to everyone who prayed for the Introduction. We had a lot of things going on behind the scenes. God was glorified and honored through it all. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Thank you for reading this longer update. I wish that you could have all been there to experience it first hand. I hope I gave you a glimpse into how special this Introduction was. Photos will fill in the gaps of your imagination as to the meaning behind the words! It will have to happen after I return but will be worth the wait! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Kale, </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Mama Eydie Kisakye! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">P.S. If you still want to send Hilary & Florence a wedding greeting it is not too late! You can email your wedding wishes to me at<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="mailto:signinghands49@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">signinghands49@yahoo.com</a></span></div><div><br /></div></div>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-56644279569938480422023-08-05T00:36:00.007-07:002023-08-05T00:40:57.215-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #5 - Friday, August 4, 2023 - Send Off Celebration - Part 2 <p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Chapter 26 - Update #5 - Friday, August 4, 2023 - Send Off Celebration - Part 2</span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div data-setdir="false" dir="ltr" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><i style="outline: none !important;">Another side note… Sending emails is still a problem. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i></b><i style="outline: none !important;">I got half way with Part 1 and it locked me out. Thanks for waiting. I do post the same updates on the blog. Posting photos is still a problem but eventually we will prevail. Just wanted you to know I am trying. (I am behind but will prayerfully catch up this week. It is actually Saturday, August 5th. Please pray for the Introduction. I have learned a lot this week. The Introduction is bigger and more significant that the wedding next week. I will send another update soon!) </i></span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">As our Send Off continued, Godfrey & I both had an opportunity to greet guests and share a few words. Godfrey gave more information of who we are as a ministry and a family. He has been with us since the beginning and has watched God do the miraculous. He was very inspiring and did a great job helping everyone understand our purpose as we strive to follow the Lord in all we do and bring glory to Him. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">This is part of my sharing: </span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">“Over the years I have been impacted by the desire these specific students have had for knowledge. The key was having the ability to receive an education to give them HOPE for a brighter future. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">We began our journey in the year of 2007 to try to help make those dreams become a reality.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">Here today are five that represent the fulfillment of what we set out to do.</b> Each one has their own story of their own journey. Each one Is using their God-given talents to bring God glory. They didn’t do it alone. Not only were they surrounded by support at Raining Hope Ministries, here and in the US, they had you. Each one<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">here</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>represents parents, friends, other family members, and our community. We all give a huge THANK YOU to all for your support and encouragement.”</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">I signed a song, “Music of the Heart” by Gloria Estefan & Nsync. It is an older song but signed it on my very first trip here.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="enhancr_card_1598409604" href="https://youtu.be/8trCxid9wxw" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">Music Of My Heart (Lawrence P. Dermer Remix)</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> I realized the words to this song have come full circle. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><i style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">“You’ll never know what you’ve done for ME. What your faith in me has done for my soul.” </span></i></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The Raining Hope family has affected all of us. They have helped us grow in our faith as we have watched them throughout all these years. Even though you haven’t met them in person, I know through testimonies and words of encouragement they have made a difference in your lives. They surely have made a difference in mine. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><i style="outline: none !important;"></i><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><i style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">“You’ll never know the gift you’ve given me - I’ll carry it with me” “Through the days ahead ... I’ll think of days before” </span></i></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">“We have had ups and downs. But we have always known that God had plans for us. Plans not to hurt or harm us but plans for a HOPE and a FUTURE. (Jeremiah 29:11) They have stayed STRONG AND COURAGEOUS through challenges. They never gave up HOPE. (Joshua 1:9)” </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Before the commissioning and sending out of the students, each one of them stood and gave testimony. I sat and cried through each one. They all gave glory to God for the great things He has done. Each one had their own story of where God has brought them. Some of what they shared I had not heard before. With each one, my heart just melted. It was a very humbling experience to hear how they were genuinely thankful to be given such a great opportunity to receive an education and pursue careers that they have been called to. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">You can hear the sense of pride in their speech that they finished school well and are making something of their lives. So many don’t make it this far. They want to make a difference for Christ is this world. <b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You are to be thanked for helping support the work here. </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Your prayers and support were a huge part of this celebration day! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">I leaned over to Godfrey when the last student was speaking. I was crying and said, </span><span style="outline: none !important;"> “I am overflowing with thankfulness and joy…I don’t know how much more I can handle!” It was that overwhelming! </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The time came for the Commissioning. I shared the words of commissioning and Godfrey led the commissioning prayer. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen”. Ephesians 3:20-21 </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">God has done MORE than we have asked or could have ever imagined. We are here today because of His power that is at work within us. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">I read words from another song, “I Believe It (The Life of Jesus)” by Jon Reddick. <a class="enhancr_card_1982080746" href="https://youtu.be/0-z1OK54Ae0" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">Jon Reddick - I Believe It (The Life Of Jesus) [Official Lyric Video]</a></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><i style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">“It's not just a story. It’s a living breathing walking testimony” </span></i></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">These five student’s story does not end here today. It is beginning of a continuing STORY of how God is using them to make a difference. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">They are a living, breathing testimony of His grace and LOVE! </b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">The commissioning</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>included the words of Acts 1:8 and Mark 16:15-18 which Pastor Dockery at St. Stephens Missionary Baptist Church prayed over me when they commissioned me on the Sunday before I left for Uganda. Parents, leaders in the community, church and hotel all came around the five students to pray over them as Godfrey led. I wish you could have all been there. It is truly indescribable. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">We also had<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">CAKE</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>that the five students and I cut together as one. For those who have read my updates in the past, you know that the “candles” are more like “fireworks”! I am hoping I will be able to post a video of this on the blog when I get home! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">We had a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">FEAST</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>as a way to bless all those who attended. <b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This was due to the generosity of those of you who gave above and beyond for the Send Off. </b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The moment that sent me over the top…that moment that I thought I couldn’t take much more is when parents came to say bye and thank you. Vivian’s mother came to me and gave me a huge hug. She speaks no English so Vivian interpreted for me. She handed me a bag with a gift. It was probably 6 yards of the African material I buy to have dresses made. It is one of those times you want to not accept because you know they don’t have much. But then you take away the blessing from them. She wanted to bless and thank me. She gave from what she had. How humbling. I saw in her eyes the gratefulness of all Raining Hope has done for her daughter. She was so emotional. Tears welled up in her eyes. You need no interpreter for that. I said “thank you” and all she could say was ‘thank you, thank you”. She then hugged me and began praying for me in my ear. She prayed in Luganda language so powerfully. Even though I don’t understand all of the language, I understood her heart. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">That moment confirmed all the past 17 years we have walked this journey. It helps to continue to move forward knowing that the Lord is in control and is going ahead of us. It was extremely humbling. I was officially full! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Thank you for your prayers and for your encouraging words you are sending back in response to my updates. I am humbled and grateful. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Kale, </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Mama Eydie Kisakye</span></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-27846879901444722052023-08-04T01:53:00.006-07:002023-09-09T20:30:27.686-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #4 - Thursday, August 3, 2023 - Send Off Celebration - Part 1<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); outline: none;">Another side note…<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b><span face=""lucida console", sans-serif" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">While my internet problem has been solved (still praising God!), Yahoo has now been the next challenge. When I send out the newsletter updates from anywhere other than home, I get these messages that I have to change my password due to suspicious activity. It is a safeguard which is great. But it takes times to verify that it is really me that is sending out the emails. If you are missing any of the updates, just send me an email. I did my best to go back and resend the ones that kicked back. We will prevail! I tried posting videos on the blog but it is not working. (YAHOO is really a struggle. I can't get the photos from phone to computer to post. Check back later for the photos)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face=""lucida console", sans-serif" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><br /></span></span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Friday was a day filled with little reunions at the hotel! As I had breakfast, many of the hotel family came by to welcome me back home! It was so great to see so many familiar faces. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Godfrey came by in the morning to bring my wash basin filled with things I keep here so I don’t have to carry them in my luggage back and forth. I forget most of the time what I have left behind! But I was glad to see a travel hairdryer and straightener even though I end up not using it as much. On Saturday I went to use the hairdryer and it immediately shorted out because it was the wrong voltage! I had already washed my hair and had to be creative about how to dry it enough to wrap my scarf on my head. I opted on standing in front of the wall fan following it as it moved! You learn here to do the best with what you have! Hey, it worked! Godfrey said he wished I would have videotaped that! Now I wash my hair at night to air dry. The straightener is to help me not look like I put my finger in an electrical socket! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">I spent most of the day at the hotel working on my part of the program for the Send Off<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Celebration on July 29th. It seemed like a good idea when we planned the event for the day after I arrived! Half way through Friday we questioned our judgement! Ha! </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Late afternoon, Godfrey came to pick me up to bring me to the house to work together on preparations. We were still in awe that we were actually TOGETHER! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOb4lJHa8kow13n0635eL4P6-msydZ0tW2e3VWabhHzHguQhiq3s2UXDpWPxU5fh3Uir1wmGd4fko8fXmThoPg-RuC9dajIe49HcsBHtTcslXOrWVxR83taJKD2ENLwODuyefy7j4GMMbp70jo2SLx-zTP2W95_omBkmz5WUWlgIKr8pFG-648noEleg8/s640/Bow%20-%20Jemimah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOb4lJHa8kow13n0635eL4P6-msydZ0tW2e3VWabhHzHguQhiq3s2UXDpWPxU5fh3Uir1wmGd4fko8fXmThoPg-RuC9dajIe49HcsBHtTcslXOrWVxR83taJKD2ENLwODuyefy7j4GMMbp70jo2SLx-zTP2W95_omBkmz5WUWlgIKr8pFG-648noEleg8/w238-h317/Bow%20-%20Jemimah.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jemimah</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_WHnz5ufo-Sbq6ZU6lvwV_Tg2ebUKd_BqwO6_5gluu5tloOPvZmq1mJyg1zNW8Xg7y3mgg2p9f9w52UKyM7gv4i78QmwQDCb7Ockq42SkMJkDPW_zOzPJpqU94nnjtFEESkhDGxMl71kUqHFIBxLysOnZsj-h1w8hWaIxKd9vb7kiRfr-BPIyfJ1qu8/s579/Bows%20-%20Annet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="377" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_WHnz5ufo-Sbq6ZU6lvwV_Tg2ebUKd_BqwO6_5gluu5tloOPvZmq1mJyg1zNW8Xg7y3mgg2p9f9w52UKyM7gv4i78QmwQDCb7Ockq42SkMJkDPW_zOzPJpqU94nnjtFEESkhDGxMl71kUqHFIBxLysOnZsj-h1w8hWaIxKd9vb7kiRfr-BPIyfJ1qu8/s320/Bows%20-%20Annet.jpg" width="208" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Annet</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6480yPcbvyNBU_hrrHGj3hHP_pNr8yv0tIGrjuiII6MnhrDAhfUDPeo_XPYMn6eIy0Q3VmeG7FKfjvla72l71EWdUndXlm2AXgaOkt2_fq-L5dxD5hH3IQfMB5s5PbhwIpyiFWwtbR8kUPzikNiVHD3fr1pSPbfEx1Ak38DYx-VmiLiV9lpppXsVd4E/s473/Bows%20-%20Sophia%20Jemimah%20Tamara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="399" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6480yPcbvyNBU_hrrHGj3hHP_pNr8yv0tIGrjuiII6MnhrDAhfUDPeo_XPYMn6eIy0Q3VmeG7FKfjvla72l71EWdUndXlm2AXgaOkt2_fq-L5dxD5hH3IQfMB5s5PbhwIpyiFWwtbR8kUPzikNiVHD3fr1pSPbfEx1Ak38DYx-VmiLiV9lpppXsVd4E/s320/Bows%20-%20Sophia%20Jemimah%20Tamara.jpg" width="270" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to Right - Tamarah, Jemimah & Sophia</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfrvM-7mroKlNuQmlfAjl__zRNVaq6bZYuT_1eu0iHLMhqCqiECVWvHNDyIVXIcEQsrOYpMNvabRf3DFmGXhO87UPN1mLp45dO_7RpIMMhpV1eNy-_2Bm7bJzgsKHI4d0c7UGSMDzF7dbzQ4ladZ_DignIBG9xF0YFWr_WW12BUmpsnIDjnXtabulcpI/s640/Bows%20-%20Joanne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfrvM-7mroKlNuQmlfAjl__zRNVaq6bZYuT_1eu0iHLMhqCqiECVWvHNDyIVXIcEQsrOYpMNvabRf3DFmGXhO87UPN1mLp45dO_7RpIMMhpV1eNy-_2Bm7bJzgsKHI4d0c7UGSMDzF7dbzQ4ladZ_DignIBG9xF0YFWr_WW12BUmpsnIDjnXtabulcpI/s320/Bows%20-%20Joanne.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joanne</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Before dinner, I taught them how to make bows out of the ribbon I brought for the wedding. They said they could use some of it for the Send Off. So we spent time around the table crafting bows that were used all around the event on Saturday! They carefully removed them after the event so they could be reused at the wedding! I have never seen so many people be so excited about learning to make bows! Lots of laughing and giggling was going on. It was both the boys and the girls. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx6n796qrBdEQ93QUAI2CxHUdd6Z2nyXig5qILPgDWMlmWstoPjbd0r4zeSdgtWO7K1WQdIIOQtFhQDK10zPA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy5Hsp8P4T6jdb12FGSpCMUujfxUiYjaJj94nn3hJCehu3_EwE7-T8OgYPXaLzUMf9pq1_1DCQ8zuMZxu3uRA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Then the Send Off day finally arrived! As I talked to each graduate, they couldn’t contain their joy. Most of them thought this day would never come. They felt like they were in a dream, </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjraLD9uUTIzXLVzDSNAU35pDv-63IKlbFmj5FTXAruNipG3_fZZwVuup3-JCZ6PjkZeClOM2UtM9ov9qTmaJffvb8py0501bznIO7Swk9LXzQ-5bFDuW2C8SrF-K7nwsvTeW1kiZrtsZJdVzSLlkEZ-RMTAEVUogyBRp6_o36W0VBAKlv8CjnSCo5HthI/s640/Graduation%20with%20Godfrey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjraLD9uUTIzXLVzDSNAU35pDv-63IKlbFmj5FTXAruNipG3_fZZwVuup3-JCZ6PjkZeClOM2UtM9ov9qTmaJffvb8py0501bznIO7Swk9LXzQ-5bFDuW2C8SrF-K7nwsvTeW1kiZrtsZJdVzSLlkEZ-RMTAEVUogyBRp6_o36W0VBAKlv8CjnSCo5HthI/s320/Graduation%20with%20Godfrey.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to Right: Sylvia, Vivian, Godfrey, Jesca, Joanne & Hilary </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaau3Its3-BIElR0fPO4VV5ImdRRUREWfYXcjgpgxBT87AR2TwcRqVn_0r1sKJux1EoqcMdeTkQGF-Fwq9eJltGHk5eTMlejkK8wrKvfth2f7Ormp-mrsU76t9zy5lfjseplh-IBDwD3j1BPvXDulK0Opho8hHJvuBhi5s5cEFRsswvzXe5QlEmFMlp4/s628/Graduation%20with%20Mum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="628" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaau3Its3-BIElR0fPO4VV5ImdRRUREWfYXcjgpgxBT87AR2TwcRqVn_0r1sKJux1EoqcMdeTkQGF-Fwq9eJltGHk5eTMlejkK8wrKvfth2f7Ormp-mrsU76t9zy5lfjseplh-IBDwD3j1BPvXDulK0Opho8hHJvuBhi5s5cEFRsswvzXe5QlEmFMlp4/s320/Graduation%20with%20Mum.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to Right: Sylvia, Vivian, Mum, Jesca, Joanne & Hilary <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Something that is part of the culture is things don’t really start at the scheduled time. Our program was to start at 2:00 pm. But at 2:00 pm no one was here. I was still at the hotel. Godfrey always wants me to arrive after a group has gathered. As I waited, 2:00 pm turned to 3:00 pm. Even an hour later, only a few were there. They know people will be later so they set the time for much earlier. In Godfrey’s words, “In Uganda we have a problem with time!” </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">When I arrived, Godfrey had me wait in the office for more to arrive. I think we officially started around 4:00 pm! But Godfrey & I led the processional with the five graduates following ! It was a moment to savor. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">We had to limit the number of invited guests. Including our family we had close to 100 when all had arrived! Throughout the program we had a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">representative from each group give a testimony of thanksgiving. </b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><b style="outline: none;">The Local Chairman</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>(LC) for our area was one of the invited local officials. He is the LC1 Chairman for this area or “village”. We were so thankful for his support. He has been with us since we moved into this house. He said he has always been impressed with our organization. But he said that ever since we have come into this area, there has never been any disciplinary problems. With a group our size and all that we are doing, he said that is a big victory and very noticeable. It makes us unique and stands out as different. He gave thanks that we are here making a difference in the community. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Two of the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">committee members</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>who are on the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">compliance committee</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>also were in attendance. Because we got started late, they were not able to stay for the whole event due to a prior engagement. But we were encouraged they were there to lend their support. We gave them an opportunity to share a word with those in attendance (another reason they wait for more people to show up. They don’t want invited guests to have only a few to talk to)! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><i style="outline: none;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">A side note: Because of those of you who have given above your regular giving, we were able to get a lot of the painting of the house done. Godfrey called them to come just before I arrived. They are pleased with our progress and we still are able to remain open while we continue to complete the things they are requiring. Praise the Lord! We still have a long way to go and more funds are needed. But for now we are safe from immediate closure.</span></i></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><b style="outline: none;">A representative from the community</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>spoke on behalf of the neighbors. She said that when we came in the neighborhood things began to change. This is the first time I have heard anyone from the community say we have been responsible for the development of the neighborhood. It was a humbling moment. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">We then had a representative speak on<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">behalf of all the parents.</b> They are all so incredibly thankful for what we have done for their children. For many, these children are the first in the family to graduate from higher institutions with any type of diploma or certificate. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><div data-setdir="false" dir="ltr" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The hotel I stay at is also a part of our enlarged family. Because of various events, they were all scattered in different places. But they sent<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none;">Selevus our dear friend to represent the hotel.</b> The hotel family has watched our students grow from young children to young adults. They are a part of our extended family and extremely proud of their accomplishments. </span>He shared their greetings and congratulations to the graduating five and the ministry as a whole. </span></div><div data-setdir="false" dir="ltr" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div data-setdir="false" dir="ltr" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-7Ljb5tELBAMnQa0ZLdt6y_0KXjRYsO7CiMTCFtG9A1HXIZHgC3cwYYYVxDj3W1dNW6HnGSgH2UeYfrpr_bfDzPssQlL_4_axOH_V7V4eN--ho2Vhrd7qyeP2zLSeyHWktfxJ70kE3xuq7QNKmNEoCDYkJ0tAiI0_bEGdNuKkeuUFTQ9wJCCk-LlogY/s580/Selevus%20with%20Mum%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="416" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-7Ljb5tELBAMnQa0ZLdt6y_0KXjRYsO7CiMTCFtG9A1HXIZHgC3cwYYYVxDj3W1dNW6HnGSgH2UeYfrpr_bfDzPssQlL_4_axOH_V7V4eN--ho2Vhrd7qyeP2zLSeyHWktfxJ70kE3xuq7QNKmNEoCDYkJ0tAiI0_bEGdNuKkeuUFTQ9wJCCk-LlogY/s320/Selevus%20with%20Mum%20.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selevus with Mum </td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">As I sat, the joy inside of me continued to build. You will see in<b style="outline: none;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Part Two of the Send-Off update</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>how I got to the point of absolute overflow! It is almost hard to put into words what we experienced as His love was poured out! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Thank you to those who are sending me notes of encouragement. We appreciate your prayers and love. We are in the midst of preparing for the Introduction Ceremony for Saturday! Continuing praying because each day God is doing more than the day before! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Kare, </span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small; outline: none;">Mama Eydie Kisakye</span></div>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-59038788415909385572023-08-02T00:28:00.008-07:002023-09-09T19:05:18.436-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #3 - August 1, 2023 - Arrival at the Home! Long Awaited Reunion! <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><b style="outline: none;"><br /></b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><b style="outline: none;">As a side note,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>the internet at the hotel has not been working well. I have been having a difficult time getting any connection especially at night when I get back from the home. Willie, the hotel IT person has been trying the last few days to get it to work for me. </span><span>So I apologize that the updates have been much slower in posting than I anticipated. I am also having difficulty posting to the blog. The GOOD NEWS is Godfrey came to the rescue! We purchased a small personal router that cost us only $42. The data for a month was only an additional $14! When he brought it to me, the result was almost instantaneous! IT WORKS! I was so happy I jumped up and gave him a hug! It is a “pocket personal router” so I can carry it with me so my phone is always connected to wifi as well. Praise the Lord! Little things we take for granted. Today, I am thankful for the little device called a “mifi”! Now I am catching up on updates and will post photos to the blog soon. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Thank you for waiting. Continue praying in between receiving the updates. God is doing exceedingly more than we can ask or think!!! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Even though the road to the hotel is very familiar, there were many new things along the way. The road from the Jinja Bridge has been upgraded. New hotels and restaurants have popped up. But there is nothing like when I see the sign to my hotel! At night, we are behind a closed gate with guards. I was glad to see familiar faces when we drove up. The ones behind the desk warmly greeted me with smiles and “Miskel”! Others know me by my African name, “Kisakye” (Grace of God). </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The hotel is very simple and not fancy. But it is my home away from home when I am here. For the past 17 years I have been in Room 35 every time except two. When I started coming, I could look out the window and see the Nile River. Through the years, I have watched a tree planted outside my window grow bigger and taller. Last time I was here in 2019, the tree had become so big, that is all I could see out my window! Instead of the Nile, I was accustomed to seeing the occasional monkey that worked it’s way onto branches to get the fruit! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">When we arrived it was dark outside. But I told Godfrey I needed to see how much bigger my tree had become. To my surprise…when I opened the window…the tree was GONE! They said the tree had gotten so big the roots were beginning to damage the foundation of the wall. They were concerned it would eventually damage the foundation of the whole building. They made the decision to take it down and convert the area into a new garden. The morning revealed another change to the landscape. The neighbors had built a two story building that continued to block the view! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">This side of the hotel is the original “block” as they call it. They have another building that is the newer block. They have wanted for years to move me to that side! But Room 35 is like my home away from home. I have had significant quiet times with the Lord in this room. It is spiritually significant to me and I LOVE it! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">We stayed just long enough to drop my bags off and go. I always feel bad for the staff that carry by bags to my room. Room 35 is on the 3rd floor. The hotel has no elevators so they carry my 50 pound bags up the three flights of stairs! They are always so gracious with the words of “no problem”. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">I didn’t want to linger any longer. It was time to see the family. My excitement was almost inexplainable when Godfrey and I approached the gate to our compound, Godfrey “beeps” the horn and we began to hear the sweet voices arise with loud laughter and joy. You could tell they were busy doing something. Godfrey said, “I don’t know what they are doing but it must be something!” Ha! I jokingly said I should get out of the car and hide. They were taking so long that I went to the back seat and hid! When they finally opened the gate their voices had become even louder! It momentarily quieted when Godfrey said, “Mama Kisakye was tired and she is coming tomorrow.” Ha! They know me better than that! I think it was Maria that didn’t believe a word so she began looking in the car…and immediately saw me trying to video tape the whole thing! They began jumping up and down, cheering, smiling, laughing,..all while I was crying tears of joy! They ran alongside the car as we drove onto the compound, dancing for joy! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">When I excited the car, the reunion was more than I could have imagined! We hugged. We cried. We laughed. They were literally jumping for joy! We just basically loved on each other! </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">They will always “escort” me whenever we are going from one place to another. I had two of the students on each side of me, arm in arm to usher me into the house. As I looked up, I saw Vivian’s SMILING FACE holding a beautiful bouquet of roses. As they presented it to me their voices raised even higher! They had string of lights around the sitting room that were blinking. The praise music was high and celebratory! They broke out in a combination of dance and jumping for joy. Their words of “welcome back, welcome home” was so much to soak in! We went on for quite awhile like that! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwUPt9F8G_q75TNBLIzkopKkjwKMOds8S4mx2VR05f5vZULF9wJS6ffoEi7BMMgWEjm7JL-nFohmvnOweCoUg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">When we finally settled down we were all amazed that the time had actually come for us to be together. Even though we have been in constant contact the last three years, nothing replaces being in each others presence. You can’t hug through an email or a text! I was amazed at how much they have all grown since I was last here! They truly have become young men and women of God who love the Lord and glow with His glory! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyEnW_kh1v87DUtTlvDcBJ0Bxx3_4GF1iB8zHtKjw6rPlQ07fQVK8qXmiwfCIxQyP_yyN9dtS9hcD-0V2ikNw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Because it was late and I had just come off of two days of travel, Godfrey wanted the time to be short. I always come to the house to greet no matter the time. As they greeted me, older Joan had a beautiful welcome on behalf of the whole family. She had a card she read that included everyone’s signature. With every word she spoke, my tears of joy flowed. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">I had a time to greet them and share from my heart as well. I also gave my greetings from all of you our dear friends and sponsors. We spent time in worship and prayer. It was a powerful time of fellowship together. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">When it came time to return to the hotel, it was hard to leave the atmosphere of love and joy. I am extremely grateful to be back here in this place. We anticipate the Lord doing great things the next few weeks. For now, we were just glad to be back together as a family.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Next update will be about the exciting and highly anticipated Send Off Celebration! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Kale, </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Mama Kisakye</span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></p>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-79607317069713048232023-08-01T03:35:00.005-07:002023-09-09T18:44:04.111-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #2 - Monday, July 31, 2023 Arrival at Airport & Drive Home<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjS2Yh87rnXnmIrgiOSKpc-Kdg5bQrxLwi-VdCzyE5vBhmqiAptmy2H1dsXyfruV0n0ljZB4_CAEPMrCSEWMDf3tVxhX1Qb2oCsyuMuS1SAxZU3FFWUW8th1arsva5EpzoiZsZloX0STKIBN7QapHMC_H2q8B0i0bTsd_V-cUi61JIspYFZhlx1WOE8FQ/s640/Entebbe%20Airport.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjS2Yh87rnXnmIrgiOSKpc-Kdg5bQrxLwi-VdCzyE5vBhmqiAptmy2H1dsXyfruV0n0ljZB4_CAEPMrCSEWMDf3tVxhX1Qb2oCsyuMuS1SAxZU3FFWUW8th1arsva5EpzoiZsZloX0STKIBN7QapHMC_H2q8B0i0bTsd_V-cUi61JIspYFZhlx1WOE8FQ/s320/Entebbe%20Airport.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entebbe Airport</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg466lxIO-SemXBe6TNddeLWuEWP4JjkXmczt7ea_hkRnDbykHjfOYp6GNgUb-077Lh_SjfjBlEHvwYuZs6a-uxRVh7otQBPyN8mVRgusEnyQBDdB2OcRSpEXvzF5lcCH6hVhzdAuf4v33-AR-MLrOgwDknuZ0vAM9R0_mvVHUZ4F8EvoWiRdC6cUW6QHU/s498/Godfrey%20Airport.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="359" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg466lxIO-SemXBe6TNddeLWuEWP4JjkXmczt7ea_hkRnDbykHjfOYp6GNgUb-077Lh_SjfjBlEHvwYuZs6a-uxRVh7otQBPyN8mVRgusEnyQBDdB2OcRSpEXvzF5lcCH6hVhzdAuf4v33-AR-MLrOgwDknuZ0vAM9R0_mvVHUZ4F8EvoWiRdC6cUW6QHU/s320/Godfrey%20Airport.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greeted at the Airport by Godfrey!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BDpEBiIP2lRISsdtpwIyxXaCzpHyOn902HAjX9m3mGEWJqYmDBaAa0gsQA9XSGlf6xp5mu7gDYCh0-ZbdrXEXKFmYGFnRrRwc-XDN4W_JQRRpbn7haugT5A8camnVgnfuf5oLf6KrfQZSGO_QRQzWmTnBR8_uJQyFSg5gZGpcfgYyhiK1_Qpb0rvsJg/s640/Airport%20-%20Godfrey%20&%20Me.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BDpEBiIP2lRISsdtpwIyxXaCzpHyOn902HAjX9m3mGEWJqYmDBaAa0gsQA9XSGlf6xp5mu7gDYCh0-ZbdrXEXKFmYGFnRrRwc-XDN4W_JQRRpbn7haugT5A8camnVgnfuf5oLf6KrfQZSGO_QRQzWmTnBR8_uJQyFSg5gZGpcfgYyhiK1_Qpb0rvsJg/s320/Airport%20-%20Godfrey%20&%20Me.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reunion! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDoiE3eyST589OyaDBDhM0IjMWlfde19StX1QG-rj-CZfstA2gvDL7G-7s6w57o6oSA2sSxWYm8CWn8myJdKQAks5ZFgcIY6Hrh2qnBUVAXFwjdn9DoRdnp0AlKrXyr4ke8MdtXkZPwMT7LacdAwROTWO52knVCGsyRd1sPFqIRCS-xbhbYy2yqlPVd_w/s640/chicken%20on%20a%20stick%20-%20Godfrey.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="543" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDoiE3eyST589OyaDBDhM0IjMWlfde19StX1QG-rj-CZfstA2gvDL7G-7s6w57o6oSA2sSxWYm8CWn8myJdKQAks5ZFgcIY6Hrh2qnBUVAXFwjdn9DoRdnp0AlKrXyr4ke8MdtXkZPwMT7LacdAwROTWO52knVCGsyRd1sPFqIRCS-xbhbYy2yqlPVd_w/s320/chicken%20on%20a%20stick%20-%20Godfrey.jpg" width="272" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken on a Stick </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxu7k6pfGCbkGlnl5ZmA4neOXX-QomJfUFd3CYFF4e14h4BfrZlvS2uMsnRkDsGWKDE9E-eLuBXxYlqGgVzIEkftu135wOUF6UgcpVHrDh484xYfcBdVzkARZPtlZTTfeewaSJEAstJ2x-MF_etRFqHHYSI6Xv1w8-W3hkJ1MTgdeTqPWb02_Rss5fpIU/s640/Chicken%20on%20a%20stick%20.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxu7k6pfGCbkGlnl5ZmA4neOXX-QomJfUFd3CYFF4e14h4BfrZlvS2uMsnRkDsGWKDE9E-eLuBXxYlqGgVzIEkftu135wOUF6UgcpVHrDh484xYfcBdVzkARZPtlZTTfeewaSJEAstJ2x-MF_etRFqHHYSI6Xv1w8-W3hkJ1MTgdeTqPWb02_Rss5fpIU/s320/Chicken%20on%20a%20stick%20.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have officially arrived! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <b style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Chapter 26 - Update #2 - Monday, July 31, 2023 </span></b><p></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none; text-size-adjust: auto;"><div style="outline: none;"><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Ever since I arrived in Uganda on Thursday, things have been non-stop! Not only have I not been able to write updates, the internet hasn’t been reliable. Now that we have made it past the first weekend of activities, I had a moment to sit and write while I am wide awake! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">God has been with me every step of the way since leaving home in Ventura for the airport. Going towards Los Angeles, especially to the airport late morning you expect traffic. But God answered the prayers of His people! It was miraculously clear and free from traffic! We arrived at the airport earlier than expected. This turned out to be a good thing because the check-in process was a little long with the international flight. </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Even when I went through TSA pre-check there was NO LINE! The TSA agent even said, “You have it all to yourself!” That was absolutely crazy! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">My 16 1/2 hour flight literally flew by! I was tired enough that in-between the meals and movies, I did nap. I have learned not to look at time or it makes it seem even longer. So when I thought enough time had sufficiently passed, I checked my watch. To my surprised I only had 3 1/2 hours left to go! I am not really sure how that happened! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial; outline: none;">We arrived in Doha, Qatar about 30 minutes before scheduled. Even though we arrived at 6:00 pm, it took me about 2 hours to maneuver around the huge airport and find my hotel! </span></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">This is the first time traveling to either Doha or Dubai that the overnight stay was so convenient. When the layover is over 8-12 hours (depending on the airlines) the airline provides free hotel accommodations. My travel agent is the one who arranges this. Which hotel is always determined at arrival by the transfer department. To my surprise, this transfer hotel was right in the airport! I didn’t have to leave the airport which also meant I didn’t have to go through immigrations to technically “enter the country” and then return in the morning through immigration to catch my connecting flight. All of this saved a couple of hours! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The hotel assigned to me was the transit part of the bigger hotel. It is specifically designed to allow transit passengers a place to sleep and shower instead of sleeping in the airport. Since I am traveling alone, it is a huge safety issue. The airport itself is one of the nicest and largest ones I have traveled to. It is a combination of stores, restaurants and hotels. There was one area they called the “Orchard”. It was a beautifully designed enclosed area that looked like a lush tropical forest. They strategically placed wooden “tents” or some artificial trees with large “roots” to sleep on. So those who had layovers less than 8 hours could at least rest in a peaceful spot. </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><div style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The overnight accommodations came with vouchers for two meals in the food court. After I ate dinner, I walked through the “Orchard” on the way back to the room. Even though the airport is pretty much 24/7, that time of night it is quieter. So I enjoyed a little “quiet time” in the orchard that even had the sounds of birds in the trees! </span></div><div style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></div><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">I had just enough time in the room to get a little rest and shower. It was nice to go and get breakfast and then walk right to the gate! Since it was all in the same terminal, I didn’t have to go back through security. </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">As I transitioned to board the flight to Entebbe, my heart was filled with excitement! Things are different when traveling overseas. We were assigned zones as to when we board. But that basically goes out the window. So you can imagine the chaos that exists when everyone tries to get in line to board! You also board a shuttle bus that takes you out on the jetway where you walk onto the plane from the ground. I think we drove for about 10 minutes before we arrived at our plane! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Words can not describe what I was feeling the last 30 minutes of my flight to Entebbe. I realized that soon I would be back in my Ugandan home. As we got closer, I began to be overwhelmed with emotion knowing that it was really happening. When we touched down I whispered a prayer of thanksgiving to God for a safe arrival. When my foot stepped off the airplane onto Uganda soil, I praised God for bringing me back. </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The Visa application for entry is now done online. While it seemed to be a smoother process, it made for longer waiting times in line. Not only do they have to verify the information, they are issuing the Visa sticker into each passport. I think this was the longest I have ever stayed in line waiting to enter the country officially! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><div style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">I had been texting Godfrey who was eagerly waiting outside. They are expanding and improving the airport, so things were just as chaotic outside. By time I finally had the final “stamp of approval” and VISA in hand, my bags were already coming around the carousel. </span></div><div style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></div><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">When I walked out of the “arrivals” door, I immediately scanned the crowd of people waiting for their loved ones. I then spotted Godfrey with his HUGE SMILE! He greeted me with a bouquet of flowers and a hug that seem to make up for the gap of three years! We were just so happy to be back together again! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">A funny note is one year I bought Godfrey some of my homemade banana bread. He loves it so much that have to make sure I bring some or he won’t let us leave the airport! Just as we are leaving, I brought out a loaf. His comment was “AH! THE REAL BANANA BREAD! It is official! I know now that you are really here!” </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">The roads have improved so much since I was last here. There is now an expressway that by-passes major areas of congestion. We avoid a lot of the traffic in Kampala by using this road. Godfrey said that the normal time from Entebbe to Jinja had increased to 4 hours one way! With the expressway it cuts that down an extra hour. </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">But of course we made the customary (and non-negotiable) stop to get chicken on a stick at the roadside stand! For those who have been with us on this journey, you know all about this famous delicacy! Ha! You will be able to see photos if you go to my blog on our website. I will only be able to post photos there. For Godfrey it is the arrival of banana bread that makes my arrival official! For me, I know I am back when I have chicken on a stick and fried bananas! </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></p><div style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">We arrived in Jinja sometime after 7 pm I think. We went to the hotel first to drop off my things. No matter the time, no matter how tired, I always stop at the home just for a quick greeting. This time it was a HUGE REUNION! Update #3 will be all about our blessed and joy-filled first evening together after 3 years of separation! </span></div><div style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br style="outline: none;" /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Kale, (Bye)</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;">Mama Eydie Kisakye </span></div><div><span style="font-size: small; outline: none;"><br /></span></div></div></div>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-63886857395282185492023-07-28T01:05:00.000-07:002023-07-28T01:05:59.168-07:00Chapter 26 - Update #1 - July 27, 2023<p><b style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Chapter 26 - Update #1 - July 27, 2023 </span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div data-setdir="false" dir="ltr" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The last month has just flown by! I recently traveled to Boston for the Lions Clubs International Convention. My first convention was 36 years ago! COVID and a virtual convention made it 34 conventions! International President Brian Sheehan presented me with his International President's Medal. He originally presented it to me at my Ventura Downtown Lions Club meeting in January as we celebrated our club's 100 year anniversary. He officially gave it to me at this year's International Convention for my years of service. What an amazing and humbling experience. Thanks to all the Lions over the past 36 years who have influenced and supported me. </span><span style="font-size: medium; outline: none !important;"> I am grateful for my Lion's International Family. </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">The last few weeks we have been focused on the challenges that arose from the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">new compliance issues</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>that came out of nowhere for the whole city of Jinja. The June 2023 newsletter was a call to pray about what we needed to do to<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">stay in compliance and stay opened.</b> The July Special Edition newsletter expanded the list of requirements. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">GOD IS ANSWERING PRAYER! </b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Thank you to every person who has donated above and beyond your regular giving to help us stay opened! We have been working on the list according to priority. We have started painting the house! Locks for the doors are being purchased and installed. So much is happening quickly. All of this is due to your prayers and your support. We still have a long way to go. Continue to pray for the necessary funds that are still needed not only for compliance but for this current trip. As soon as we have the first inspection, I will report back on the progress we have made! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">For those of you who are new to my updates, I want to get you ready for your part in this journey! My first trip to Uganda was a mission’s trip at the end of 2006. This is my 26th trip to Uganda! The chapter coincides with the number of the trip. Each trip is a chapter of the larger story of my call to Africa.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div data-setdir="false" dir="ltr" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">I write as a storyteller.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> <b style="outline: none !important;">You are on this journey with me.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> I may be the one physically going, but your hearts are what I share with the people of Uganda. I want you to<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">feel what I feel<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>and<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">see what I see</b>. The only way to do that is<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">with the words I write</b>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;"> I invite you into my story. </b></span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: medium; outline: none !important;">I will be sitting in seat 19H on my way to Doha. From Doha to Entebbe I will be in seat 23K. I will imagine you sitting with me to soak in all that God is doing!</span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;">Updates are long as a story would be</b>. I have tried to shorten them by doing bullet points but then it would be nothing more than a table of contents. I have tried<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">highlighting key thoughts</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>so like a speed reader, you could pick up on just the main points. But then the experiences were getting lost in the translation. (I still<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">highlight<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>but more to emphasize key points). I even tried writing shorter updates because a few said they were too long. It was similar to having a bad connection on the phone, only hearing every other word with the familiar, “Can you hear me now?” This approach did not allow the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">heartbeat of the mission to be communicated clearly</b>.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">So I have gone back to doing what I know He has required of me. You know ahead of time that you are going to be reading a chapter in a story. <b style="outline: none !important;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Grab a cup of coffee or tea and find a nice, comfy chair to settle into.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> I know some run off a copy to read it instead of on the computer. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">Read prayerfully.</b> Prepare to journey with me into a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">story of God’s love for His people in a place called Raining Hope in a town called Jinja in Uganda on the continent of Africa.</b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="outline: none !important;"></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="outline: none !important;">Because so much happens in one day, at times I will divide it into two emails. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">Words will come spilling out on the page.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b> I want you to be<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">right there with me</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>as you read! Feel free to take breaks to absorb the excitement! I will be posting the same updates on our blog but will add photos. You can find us at www.raininghopeuganda.blogspot.com . Once in Uganda, I will try to send updates every few days depending on the reliability of the internet connection. We have a very full schedule and I try to write at the end of each day. Sometimes I come back to the hotel and literally fall into bed! But, I will do my best to update you! </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">All past newsletters are found on our website<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.raininghope.org/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">www.raininghope.org</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>under the “Newsletter” tab. Chapter 26 updates will be found on the “Travel Blog” tab. The front page has<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">six precious videos of the five</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>who we are sending off, plus one from<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="outline: none !important;">Godfrey. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Your hearts will be blessed when you hear from those who you have supported all these years. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"> </span></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">So get ready for a grand adventure! <b style="outline: none !important;">Chapter 26 officially has begun!</b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Blessed Beyond Measure! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Mama Eydie Kisakye </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">P.S. Here is my flight information for the journey. I appreciate you joining me in prayer especially as I travel. There will be more information regarding the three main events. Please keep us in your prayers as we prepare. Also pray for me as I will speaking at each event. I also share each Sunday morning at Raining Hope Ministries as well as each evening at our family devotional time. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">DEPART</span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Tuesday, July 25, 2023</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Qatar Airlines Flight 740</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Depart LAX - 4:35 pm </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Arrive Doha - 6:30 pm (July 26, 2023) </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">15 hours & 55 minutes </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Overnight in Doha </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Qatar Airlines Flight 1383</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Depart Doha - 8:35 am (July 27, 2023) </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Arrive Entebbe - 2:15 pm (July 27, 2023) </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">5 hours & 40 minutes </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Drive to Jinja from Entebbe will be about 3 hours. Godfrey picks me up! </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">RETURN</span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Monday, August 14, 2023</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Qatar Airlines Flight 1384 </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Depart Entebbe - 5:30 pm </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">5 hours & 30 minutes </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Qatar Airlines Flight 741 </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Depart Doha - 1:20 am (August 15, 2023) </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Arrive LAX - 7:25 am (August 15, 2023) </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">16 hours & 5 minutes </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;"></b><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">SEND OFF CELEBRATION </span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Joan, Jesca, Hilary, Sylvia & Vivian</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Saturday, July 29, 2023 </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><b style="outline: none !important;"></b><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">HILARY & FLORENCE </span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">INTRODUCTION</span></b></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Saturday, August 5, 2023 </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">WEDDING </span></b></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "lucida console", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; outline: none !important; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: small; outline: none !important;">Saturday, August 12, 2023</span></div>Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-84491984530271266682017-01-24T07:51:00.000-08:002017-01-24T07:51:19.803-08:00Chapter 23 - Update #7 - Christmas Gifts & Trip to the Zoo - Part 2<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I had been to this zoo probably eight years ago. I had heard that they had been through major renovations because they are trying to make it one of the premiere tourist attractions in Uganda. There was an article in the New Vision newspaper on the day we were traveling to Entebbe. It was titled, “Uganda Among Top 10 Global Tourism Spots.” It said this, “Uganda comes fourth after India, Scotland and Canada. It and Namibia speak for Africa.” This was published by Rough Guides, a publisher of inspirational travel guidebooks in the UK. “For magnificence, for variety of form and colour, for profusion of brilliant life…Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa.” (My African Journey, Winston Churchill, 1908). “More than a century after he penned the line, Winston Churchill’s oft-quoted quip about Uganda still stands.” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The zoo is actually called, <b>“The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.” </b> It was re-launched last year after renovations. What is a tourist attraction for visitors is an <b>cultural treasure for Ugandan children. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
It didn’t take long to see that we were in for an amazing day. We drove into the compound welcomed by two huge statues of giraffes! The children were already intrigued! They also wanted to represent Christ and Raining Hope well. I had noticed as they got off the bus how well dressed each one was. They dressed in their absolute best! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0ebtI7TpoifgzebVouSupiG1obF3_NJC5wR1RNC-00NnrZvLm9j7kghQvhPzCxiT3nWZ8S9rlEulc6FRSVcqleRrlcFCN3OLXlzXI-766FNVI3AnlFHTfVFmiXmtyScxXDl_4aes3Qg/s1600/DSC00529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0ebtI7TpoifgzebVouSupiG1obF3_NJC5wR1RNC-00NnrZvLm9j7kghQvhPzCxiT3nWZ8S9rlEulc6FRSVcqleRrlcFCN3OLXlzXI-766FNVI3AnlFHTfVFmiXmtyScxXDl_4aes3Qg/s320/DSC00529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Fnkv4xbF719oIYOZdS8wtmr4LQ9zQQlbBVQfSdtY6wM_pBye8aXq99ehXpAaaShBufCh0cojSgz4dHfwboLoSl6Jo7aR-XSuyNJsS7fDXiF9s_J-5JMxPhsExDOZQi-vWcXEM1kPmsc/s1600/DSC00534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Fnkv4xbF719oIYOZdS8wtmr4LQ9zQQlbBVQfSdtY6wM_pBye8aXq99ehXpAaaShBufCh0cojSgz4dHfwboLoSl6Jo7aR-XSuyNJsS7fDXiF9s_J-5JMxPhsExDOZQi-vWcXEM1kPmsc/s320/DSC00534.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FPPrBY2wmtCkKxlGnhzTsTFj9EdrdqFkrqWxvmb54NoYdtgC2ejWnyZNJ36Tbvgrqu_lxDcUceY4WJiTQ2xk5DnWkPpGmR09MlRelNXorT1u2gd2Jq5VS1tLcwprF7OMM8PtWK4psjA/s1600/DSC00542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FPPrBY2wmtCkKxlGnhzTsTFj9EdrdqFkrqWxvmb54NoYdtgC2ejWnyZNJ36Tbvgrqu_lxDcUceY4WJiTQ2xk5DnWkPpGmR09MlRelNXorT1u2gd2Jq5VS1tLcwprF7OMM8PtWK4psjA/s320/DSC00542.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDOlEccP_EVGh3u_5Brc_XWk1tlKLnsmclPNNdSGmyRUubxgsUtGF3c_YVvW-nbKbSa5VwliGNns4gahM0ZY_lBYAkiaWoitaTOoyv28k0gew9M5wt_x1KpE0JeIffdT8dDPEGoD08vY/s1600/DSC00544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDOlEccP_EVGh3u_5Brc_XWk1tlKLnsmclPNNdSGmyRUubxgsUtGF3c_YVvW-nbKbSa5VwliGNns4gahM0ZY_lBYAkiaWoitaTOoyv28k0gew9M5wt_x1KpE0JeIffdT8dDPEGoD08vY/s320/DSC00544.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>The Christmas gift included the entry fee for each individual. </b> We were able to save some money because of a contact Godfrey had with the zoo. We worked out a special fee that lowered it substantially because we were a group of students. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
We had a guide that took us on a tour of the zoo. This was key because he gave us so much information as he walked us from one exhibit to another. We started in an information center that had fossils of huge animals such as a crocodile and skulls of all kinds of animals! The children were fascinated! The funniest picture was one of Jireh and Hope staring down one of the heads wondering what in the world they were looking at! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilMhZNbymrAhItERnP2PZZiD6S-1E63Tg8Jk61LuOD5Mpw8rgtW03Z1hxxyK0WJpVP_g6-toqYU9NUkGlaYb4hai4S1rVjecAN9gLItCfIBiPUZjDyYEBgyHLiEnM1cGzA5jQ0YMcHIM/s1600/DSC00554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilMhZNbymrAhItERnP2PZZiD6S-1E63Tg8Jk61LuOD5Mpw8rgtW03Z1hxxyK0WJpVP_g6-toqYU9NUkGlaYb4hai4S1rVjecAN9gLItCfIBiPUZjDyYEBgyHLiEnM1cGzA5jQ0YMcHIM/s320/DSC00554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPZ52PnU4wluFdi7mePhYIGbtXgMgWrsRbALnpadzh_zWn-aFlU0BMOKjCCQkFStCTWF9Bg32HFUzKVPGkNkFtSoZNZCQTqFm2JWr8bjv0O-OUG7Za_qA6b1pr1lwzDYHu9Ns2fs55_w/s1600/DSC00557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPZ52PnU4wluFdi7mePhYIGbtXgMgWrsRbALnpadzh_zWn-aFlU0BMOKjCCQkFStCTWF9Bg32HFUzKVPGkNkFtSoZNZCQTqFm2JWr8bjv0O-OUG7Za_qA6b1pr1lwzDYHu9Ns2fs55_w/s320/DSC00557.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
When I asked you in Part 1 to let go of any expectations of your own zoo experience, I had to take the same advice. Mine was more about walking around the zoo with thirty two people. Whenever I take groups out (even my ISP teams!) I am always counting heads! For those of you who are teachers or leaders of children, I can hear you doing the same thing! One, two, three, four, etc. to make sure that you don’t loose track of anyone. I was ready to use the buddy system to make sure that no one wandered off. Godfrey said to me,<b> “They cannot wander off on their own. We move together as family.”</b> Wow. This was literally walked out in a beautiful way as we moved throughout the zoo. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpR8pR252Rm-3jpJ48v3d0vXeGlNpnjRkz2Md175GiSxZQAjVoBZ4V2rAAB8VtEBlEYsDp0mFxO1qjz5RRiC2xYbynxu7J_bwVBogkgKdMif8bKahKINVovvI41p5VlpmRIpavStXtruQ/s1600/DSC00563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpR8pR252Rm-3jpJ48v3d0vXeGlNpnjRkz2Md175GiSxZQAjVoBZ4V2rAAB8VtEBlEYsDp0mFxO1qjz5RRiC2xYbynxu7J_bwVBogkgKdMif8bKahKINVovvI41p5VlpmRIpavStXtruQ/s320/DSC00563.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I had nothing to worry about. Everyone looked out for the younger children. Ronald did bring his walking sticks (crutches) just to be safe. It was actually a good idea because we did a lot of walking that day. It slowed him up at times but someone was always with him holding up the rear. The amazing things was it was always someone different. There were beautiful testimonies at the end of the day about what meant the most to the students. Over and over again they said how<b> well they moved together through the zoo as a family. Take a moment to soak that in.</b> They truly were and are a picture of what it means to be the family of God. They take care of one another. They love one another. They watch out for one another. They enjoy life together. They reflect Christ in all they do. What a proud mum I am! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The difference about the <b>monkeys in this zoo is they are not in a cage. </b> They wander freely around the compound. But in my opinion they seem to be so used to the people and want to make it known that they are the kings of the compound! We don’t touch them but a few of them almost seemed to chase us! When it came to our breakfast “rolex” we had to eat in the bus. If we would have gone to the picnic area, we would have had to fight for our food. Let alone, some bold monkeys perched themselves on the side mirrors of the front windows hoping we would throw them a bite to eat! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd28jCwgxITblOxaNf53CWFJUaxp7knyf7zw5tOvA34mVpQRxlyFRR9F_G7wiU40BlyPXuC-5LcOx9VmkZy1yMv2nVFadvOUx803DzdZFWvQCsIPT74iT5Kfcr0NoVFpnvzZnHsFQ9tXE/s1600/Zoo+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd28jCwgxITblOxaNf53CWFJUaxp7knyf7zw5tOvA34mVpQRxlyFRR9F_G7wiU40BlyPXuC-5LcOx9VmkZy1yMv2nVFadvOUx803DzdZFWvQCsIPT74iT5Kfcr0NoVFpnvzZnHsFQ9tXE/s320/Zoo+.jpg" width="202" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>One of the favorites was seeing a beautiful leopard. </b>As it sat majestically, safely in a protected environment, the guide asked, “What would you do if you were face to face with a leopard.” Many said, “RUN!” which was the wrong answer! The guide said it is not wise to try to climb a tree because they will just follow you right up. I didn’t hear his answer of what to actually do. But as we walked I told Henry this is what I would do… “I would tell the leopard that I don’t taste good. If he eats me he will get sick so he should just take off!” I have never heard Henry laugh so loud! He thought that was hilarious. Guess he was actually picturing me talking to the leopard! But we used this illustration later that night. I Peter 5:8 “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” The enemy does prowl around trying to devour us. But in verse 9 it says, “Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” We can stand firm. And the children know you stand with them. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
John 10:10 says, “The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” These verses became alive in the hearts of the children after seeing leopards & lions in person! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
As they moved from animal to animal they had story after story to tell. Here is what meant the most to the children. <b>They all had a favorite animal that they LOVED but only had seen in a book or on TV or a painting. When they were faced with the real life animal they were beyond astonished.</b> Florence told us later that her dream was always to see a Crested Crane in person. We stood next to the exhibit with a beautiful Crested Crane not more than a few feet away from us. It looked at us as if to show off its majestic crown that adorns its head. Florence said that it was a dream come true. Hearing them talk later about what it meant for them to actually see their favorite animal in person brought tears to my eyes. Something that we may not think twice about when visiting our zoos, they counted as a privilege and honor. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>The chimpanzees </b>were a huge hit because there were so many and they were so animated! They were shocked at the size of the crocodiles and lions! <b>The way we moved through the zoo was like a well choreographed symphony. </b> I would have one come up to me as I walked and say, “This is the best day of my life!” Another would come and tell me that they never thought they would ever actually make it to the zoo. Another told us later that because of this experience, when they have children they want to follow our example and make sure they bring their own children here one day. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
As our tour of the zoo came to an end, we walked right past a new restaurant. But what came after that restaurant was a gift from God. There was a steep landing that made its way down to a “beach” on Lake Victoria. Godfrey and I at the same time thought the same thing. “Maybe we can have our baptisms here!! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>The bonus to this day was what was about to happen.</b> Over the past ten years, we have known that all of our children had at one time or another accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior. But no one had ever helped them to understand the need to follow in obedience in the <b>ordinance of baptism. </b> Godfrey has been working with the children during their time of discipleship. He had been helping them to understand baptism and did extensive training on this. We had fifteen that had not been baptized yet. We had planned to find a local beach in Entebbe to do the baptisms after leaving the zoo. But God provided the place right where we were at! We gained permission from the zoo officials and were ready after eating our rolex breakfast in the bus! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIHzvPM3u5QXDmzQQ-UFZjYHItcZTbNdmZg0pquXOjzH-WKfIYiywAfDfeGrbXwl0Azmi7Smo60vZMLXdxeMvBiRHSbWeU3BOsG0eyuCc9Smk4CSdTj5eYvAN2SUaiStBS0kgXsdu46M/s1600/Zoo+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIHzvPM3u5QXDmzQQ-UFZjYHItcZTbNdmZg0pquXOjzH-WKfIYiywAfDfeGrbXwl0Azmi7Smo60vZMLXdxeMvBiRHSbWeU3BOsG0eyuCc9Smk4CSdTj5eYvAN2SUaiStBS0kgXsdu46M/s320/Zoo+9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
What was interesting was when I said, <b>“We are ready to do the baptisms!” </b>there was excitement but with some hesitation What I found out later was that <b>most of our children do not know how to swim and some are really afraid of the water. </b>Esther for one said that she was really afraid of the water. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
This is one of those moments I wish you could have been there. To see as each one went down into the water, then was raised to walk in newness of life was inspiring. The look on their faces were priceless. <b>It was joy that rose up out of the water was not one of fear. </b>Even Esther said, “I no longer fear the water!” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Those baptized were, Esther, Florence, young Joanne, Difasi, Dan, Vivian, Doreen, Tabitha, Tamarah, Joel, Silvia, Jemimah, Maria, Sharon, & Ronald! </b> As each one went into the water, the others were on the shore singing praises to God. When we were all done, we gathered in a circle to pray a prayer of dedication to these who were baptized. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ40odAKZgWeO9M9vrwNTwEkLEC5xfYDYo2bJXN_cAKjKY0SfOMEXcwo2Xh1NzYRli8ebjl9vsde2CTUmZPxpnG_X74hdtWilA4mkbzyalVf7NlTvWvDGH1YlsYKQNSzbyltMH2anew-w/s1600/DSC00640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ40odAKZgWeO9M9vrwNTwEkLEC5xfYDYo2bJXN_cAKjKY0SfOMEXcwo2Xh1NzYRli8ebjl9vsde2CTUmZPxpnG_X74hdtWilA4mkbzyalVf7NlTvWvDGH1YlsYKQNSzbyltMH2anew-w/s320/DSC00640.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right: Difasi, Joel, Maria, Jeseca, Dan, Esther Joanne, Sharon, Jemimah, Florence, Tabitha, Silvia, Tamarah , Doreen, Vivian, Ronald) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyW1oJXwPDeFc9rvyU9rf3kQ1PgQYxSdNYV_fyJPHdSjayRudL2mx5Z4yl53BblfYE5dzSBjo_D4q5Pv6gnA5D9YNus2yWQ6dADvTL4uYYm723qxMKri9aSMWp697FFSOlaCxdozoqZc/s1600/Zoo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyW1oJXwPDeFc9rvyU9rf3kQ1PgQYxSdNYV_fyJPHdSjayRudL2mx5Z4yl53BblfYE5dzSBjo_D4q5Pv6gnA5D9YNus2yWQ6dADvTL4uYYm723qxMKri9aSMWp697FFSOlaCxdozoqZc/s320/Zoo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmhLT2sSrkZYgz9Ep-LzVMhkm_EoJ7nKicrytG784B6cWxZaVaA-uxga9w02UUl-MeTjuz1cGg0pYvjjiEh39bhGs59fuUVslDnvg6de0y0Y2_7ztpRaZ0eJnfTZQRioydg29ri_4k8Q/s1600/Zoo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmhLT2sSrkZYgz9Ep-LzVMhkm_EoJ7nKicrytG784B6cWxZaVaA-uxga9w02UUl-MeTjuz1cGg0pYvjjiEh39bhGs59fuUVslDnvg6de0y0Y2_7ztpRaZ0eJnfTZQRioydg29ri_4k8Q/s320/Zoo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmL-nPIfXroheySdemXuP9PEgqiUwurHw4gaUP4iY3bQuBcmf0F-aM9P7bnR_C0dDdr20xHTkwQPIatTUtCHv-Rrzzdba120dTgLGR6euRPfhG69wx1cSzUv3lqniq07QwRYRwIg5oBvw/s1600/Zoo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmL-nPIfXroheySdemXuP9PEgqiUwurHw4gaUP4iY3bQuBcmf0F-aM9P7bnR_C0dDdr20xHTkwQPIatTUtCHv-Rrzzdba120dTgLGR6euRPfhG69wx1cSzUv3lqniq07QwRYRwIg5oBvw/s320/Zoo+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKW4Ou6TR1TqoU23jF0s5EWzZSxk1bIRLs8TpZRq9F_cFty_2B1-FpG8reh0oqnVdFyRtFCDONs2tsdD8WjeDxd_GVv8yV9lTG8dFLaC1DB4VYBrMJo7FYaeMW1Gtx4Ny26TUcXQciOMQ/s1600/Zoo+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKW4Ou6TR1TqoU23jF0s5EWzZSxk1bIRLs8TpZRq9F_cFty_2B1-FpG8reh0oqnVdFyRtFCDONs2tsdD8WjeDxd_GVv8yV9lTG8dFLaC1DB4VYBrMJo7FYaeMW1Gtx4Ny26TUcXQciOMQ/s320/Zoo+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXv7muW2jJEH9wWbJdc04TPHKZxtdIhOGZi5NCPP8bPtfyFYJ0zUtsaNuH4sHbSocpt8_paOznXWVQ4Nntd8FnHg140PJF7-VGGLrQUVpjh9fEcgiqUQuicEJVnjBWWzQyrfLU0PlinXE/s1600/Zoo+8+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXv7muW2jJEH9wWbJdc04TPHKZxtdIhOGZi5NCPP8bPtfyFYJ0zUtsaNuH4sHbSocpt8_paOznXWVQ4Nntd8FnHg140PJF7-VGGLrQUVpjh9fEcgiqUQuicEJVnjBWWzQyrfLU0PlinXE/s320/Zoo+8+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMl0BnNCKKackHkxPmdSJppuzxNOJp6NXtNoYb-qp4ljoL_LFv155v2usc9nRe2dugbXpL6uGlJYWXhVsiLK2TuJCFb5TJnH6TnVPg9Q9HIuPiePvgNmDnXP2mGUEQDiNKEnuh_2Bf9s/s1600/Zoo+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMl0BnNCKKackHkxPmdSJppuzxNOJp6NXtNoYb-qp4ljoL_LFv155v2usc9nRe2dugbXpL6uGlJYWXhVsiLK2TuJCFb5TJnH6TnVPg9Q9HIuPiePvgNmDnXP2mGUEQDiNKEnuh_2Bf9s/s320/Zoo+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>This moment was one that I will never forget. </b> I watched all day as God gave these children the desires of their heart which was really watching His Word come alive. I will always remember how they reacted when they saw their favorite animals. They were no longer in a book. It was if they came out and were alive like the movie Jumanji! They were larger than life and moving and breathing. We talked about this later to make the point that we shouldn’t leave God in The Book. His Words come alive because Jesus is alive in our hearts and our lives! As I shared this you could see this truth really make sense now after our zoo experience. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
This became a living testimony when they took the step of obedience of following Jesus in baptism. <b> All that I do as a mum leads to a moment such as this. To watch them proclaim to the world that they belong to Jesus is what blesses my heart the most. </b> My emotions were overflowing and very hard to truly explain the moment. I hope my words give it some justice. My heart was filled with such love. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbY5PW0gKLSZCN-nSafqM4qVbGMHnemfGGex6bEVe5TBcSHGTToPbHDTyLjZ9kRRkolOaFmajQt3vKUsgcntG3ZRddQYnlv4NhKMaqE9anLVROULfXg4Qvs2NzEdgav5V9ZlIL9k5UltE/s1600/DSC00654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbY5PW0gKLSZCN-nSafqM4qVbGMHnemfGGex6bEVe5TBcSHGTToPbHDTyLjZ9kRRkolOaFmajQt3vKUsgcntG3ZRddQYnlv4NhKMaqE9anLVROULfXg4Qvs2NzEdgav5V9ZlIL9k5UltE/s320/DSC00654.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vivian</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjk5w8La6QUcHRzcMRSpKTtePJSJ2iPQR74AEsLDO5KqjEFlec93nS_A_IzmxGHzHFsYM9PoFRhVC7YAlzISVaE_ddX7dFHUWhq0W2aOEkhy1R8GHRUWEe8dOizbmQA0wmqMYTiKnUER0/s1600/DSC00656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjk5w8La6QUcHRzcMRSpKTtePJSJ2iPQR74AEsLDO5KqjEFlec93nS_A_IzmxGHzHFsYM9PoFRhVC7YAlzISVaE_ddX7dFHUWhq0W2aOEkhy1R8GHRUWEe8dOizbmQA0wmqMYTiKnUER0/s320/DSC00656.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAI6j7Wj5dXyW__oTSjbO8PQneXHybI4ovoGE_GQdNUI06C5OO5InGRtIIxKzfXEGahBFR05H6eDaOCvhKD6PiO8PiBo0j-zqT-ah9IrH4VkGLYokW3VIyzMWfeE5cnoiuaJ7LettgnvE/s1600/DSC00657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAI6j7Wj5dXyW__oTSjbO8PQneXHybI4ovoGE_GQdNUI06C5OO5InGRtIIxKzfXEGahBFR05H6eDaOCvhKD6PiO8PiBo0j-zqT-ah9IrH4VkGLYokW3VIyzMWfeE5cnoiuaJ7LettgnvE/s320/DSC00657.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEn6n2btcbrnTFNqUQRez14raEwkQO16uYo1hTeVq13wr8VnpD-cKYLXvj1VMHnAxnahPOk4Cv3CFcPAYsGZC91UBoUpilypFBuZlTOPgh5-KDqA0dDXKCw9dmSN2E4CbVASqkEXug6Y/s1600/DSC00658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEn6n2btcbrnTFNqUQRez14raEwkQO16uYo1hTeVq13wr8VnpD-cKYLXvj1VMHnAxnahPOk4Cv3CFcPAYsGZC91UBoUpilypFBuZlTOPgh5-KDqA0dDXKCw9dmSN2E4CbVASqkEXug6Y/s320/DSC00658.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doreen </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MGeeco8HJ9bDC0Wmr7tkzwK5OLfX1xpoGrMIQFxM5_3TubsnLmNBFqsuBWnUa3AZqoLWJg0EEVXpOt_LiICP3pi03IDrcpJLtpaQza7tDKBCDInnBwGl9McDPewt9G7Pxf58ql0jtVY/s1600/DSC00660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MGeeco8HJ9bDC0Wmr7tkzwK5OLfX1xpoGrMIQFxM5_3TubsnLmNBFqsuBWnUa3AZqoLWJg0EEVXpOt_LiICP3pi03IDrcpJLtpaQza7tDKBCDInnBwGl9McDPewt9G7Pxf58ql0jtVY/s320/DSC00660.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_KoND65kL7vvtwZlKO4otx7igHE0qP_uABoTC8LmQSSTs2AA6yvO9oXAYNZ6Hc4mWPlc9RDipJbMBVHFgSsybdV_pNhK-hd-hzcQWIkUXO2CRZ23-bCbCzCSXLWN4gJdhpSi0x_hVw4/s1600/DSC00663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_KoND65kL7vvtwZlKO4otx7igHE0qP_uABoTC8LmQSSTs2AA6yvO9oXAYNZ6Hc4mWPlc9RDipJbMBVHFgSsybdV_pNhK-hd-hzcQWIkUXO2CRZ23-bCbCzCSXLWN4gJdhpSi0x_hVw4/s320/DSC00663.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26vUa2shMQjX_Fy39H68aSG-9ZcTajWIVdfqRbcLUp0XYxJdTUd9a9cZil3x3gdmbyRZUchAlHo3uV38dRkL_JQ_iKH3xRf55IM_csVOSFeNfiwUHbFnHICbDHOp2OLGLpS3phmlP8PE/s1600/DSC00664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26vUa2shMQjX_Fy39H68aSG-9ZcTajWIVdfqRbcLUp0XYxJdTUd9a9cZil3x3gdmbyRZUchAlHo3uV38dRkL_JQ_iKH3xRf55IM_csVOSFeNfiwUHbFnHICbDHOp2OLGLpS3phmlP8PE/s320/DSC00664.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tabitha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWB5HsbMqPSlBD61NiVEWI82ft8tRqXF0Dw2rCWFVz3mBOdylXBkPP49QPXZbJr2XCFbgEaAY-3H9nit9uhiZihNNN40PddtaNFnr1oVdGEapzTEwYSQDmHxqD-K6gx913g1DI-BJbx4Q/s1600/DSC00666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWB5HsbMqPSlBD61NiVEWI82ft8tRqXF0Dw2rCWFVz3mBOdylXBkPP49QPXZbJr2XCFbgEaAY-3H9nit9uhiZihNNN40PddtaNFnr1oVdGEapzTEwYSQDmHxqD-K6gx913g1DI-BJbx4Q/s320/DSC00666.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuiaQscT-mzpicXCvW8Y9tMA83lWHqIgl7HY4vOrNa6Sd0JOGWceROIYkNO8eqlD6ClO7pEZgw6IG0ib25PlidAw8BusLDyZ9A3XcGNBDmq3C2xVALZcUd23pwHucdSblkuJeNZlLm4s/s1600/DSC00668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuiaQscT-mzpicXCvW8Y9tMA83lWHqIgl7HY4vOrNa6Sd0JOGWceROIYkNO8eqlD6ClO7pEZgw6IG0ib25PlidAw8BusLDyZ9A3XcGNBDmq3C2xVALZcUd23pwHucdSblkuJeNZlLm4s/s320/DSC00668.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-ORU01spreZBqvQn8CWB8l_FKEPuhZXDcpofqbFsQKpzHs7OjN4ZCRBVA0UGS4J7GcX6yH0M_FV-b3PBiMApkrpUtU6F9M-ooQXZ5tKlFAkVF_e-88kVF8SfOfuxOBZ0lz-re5pu4k8/s1600/DSC00671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-ORU01spreZBqvQn8CWB8l_FKEPuhZXDcpofqbFsQKpzHs7OjN4ZCRBVA0UGS4J7GcX6yH0M_FV-b3PBiMApkrpUtU6F9M-ooQXZ5tKlFAkVF_e-88kVF8SfOfuxOBZ0lz-re5pu4k8/s320/DSC00671.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tamarah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvTtA2h8l5Qg3UTBXMSFrp2XL-ycX_FLlJioNxr4XdNpKfuxllnhr8_JxBRyT6bQRtSTfcQd45vfD0s1VohSSU9r7ZwXreoFbB_FnoMw6Scf9nDClv6u3h4pSb_Wq6Dub7G6QU-U-Css/s1600/DSC00674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvTtA2h8l5Qg3UTBXMSFrp2XL-ycX_FLlJioNxr4XdNpKfuxllnhr8_JxBRyT6bQRtSTfcQd45vfD0s1VohSSU9r7ZwXreoFbB_FnoMw6Scf9nDClv6u3h4pSb_Wq6Dub7G6QU-U-Css/s320/DSC00674.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRn4WuulsnwUVLnmuml1AVOaeukAlx0zcWTnXP_h_LmdhrsjtKmFLFVmU67uTul2NUokvUUTg-CZIsE332w2Nh6FTw0K7nIjdQ0BbY59zKAIIS7QZUjGTW7R5vvunpwblWVErfneW0Ps/s1600/DSC00675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRn4WuulsnwUVLnmuml1AVOaeukAlx0zcWTnXP_h_LmdhrsjtKmFLFVmU67uTul2NUokvUUTg-CZIsE332w2Nh6FTw0K7nIjdQ0BbY59zKAIIS7QZUjGTW7R5vvunpwblWVErfneW0Ps/s320/DSC00675.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKi3n4ROuovVkMWDBBt8m_0tfZKQD1MxxBkfzS2F_dOsgLCSWjwWQHDnvPXv3m3nraAUJZ49v2PJn6lZk3NORT6YgzPK3-3SnzXVTQA31oY3Y7uDzx6S7qKdwtjzb1qE4SRdKg-faITEU/s1600/DSC00680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKi3n4ROuovVkMWDBBt8m_0tfZKQD1MxxBkfzS2F_dOsgLCSWjwWQHDnvPXv3m3nraAUJZ49v2PJn6lZk3NORT6YgzPK3-3SnzXVTQA31oY3Y7uDzx6S7qKdwtjzb1qE4SRdKg-faITEU/s320/DSC00680.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Florence</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBp-wFXhF3SNWOWmvYqBlxHU8CyamHJp3N7vU7AEoE9esLPl24wRdy_gq5mQX_RfMik3aH6HCpSelRG4JUpvIWQzrHtns1hMO1Ig0j_o6kH5io4BqqaJ850B5Z84sSuLpRhI5tZdg6cBs/s1600/DSC00686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBp-wFXhF3SNWOWmvYqBlxHU8CyamHJp3N7vU7AEoE9esLPl24wRdy_gq5mQX_RfMik3aH6HCpSelRG4JUpvIWQzrHtns1hMO1Ig0j_o6kH5io4BqqaJ850B5Z84sSuLpRhI5tZdg6cBs/s320/DSC00686.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UWq1ZEE8fJcWkvgKs_b3g3qF1f56BDZsu69OzVeRvty4i8MtOMK3foSJ65lLOpKhxz7gsLxOxgnLcfQoLEWpuyIeH457UMdcjxRQ1nIsvopWlA_uxI9kzpg8XzEXICxz7QEPkl947rY/s1600/DSC00691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UWq1ZEE8fJcWkvgKs_b3g3qF1f56BDZsu69OzVeRvty4i8MtOMK3foSJ65lLOpKhxz7gsLxOxgnLcfQoLEWpuyIeH457UMdcjxRQ1nIsvopWlA_uxI9kzpg8XzEXICxz7QEPkl947rY/s320/DSC00691.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJlkgQo9hyphenhyphenrkzik_xxHTe_2BaXFs-MmE64WIAnEgeyvIFtXYSj3zsVYAETnAOrNIWngEsO9bg6q3YmOPSfckHqOSiEMrgGh_WfY4KsLGCBSLi4wAuKlStMOa94rCan3IP7HpttL6K4Ag/s1600/DSC00692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJlkgQo9hyphenhyphenrkzik_xxHTe_2BaXFs-MmE64WIAnEgeyvIFtXYSj3zsVYAETnAOrNIWngEsO9bg6q3YmOPSfckHqOSiEMrgGh_WfY4KsLGCBSLi4wAuKlStMOa94rCan3IP7HpttL6K4Ag/s320/DSC00692.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Difasi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTIvOikpLHj9RqISxodTJJjpwAs2ZZ53LfTX9Ay4dNfKktkvJiLTIFtPBLFY_fnz4xj7F1jAKf8GxccBbhxyr21o2Mda5Hqa714ip1B3OyESpv23_guotSlFrTYd2KvkYpy_2XUDk7iI/s1600/DSC00696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTIvOikpLHj9RqISxodTJJjpwAs2ZZ53LfTX9Ay4dNfKktkvJiLTIFtPBLFY_fnz4xj7F1jAKf8GxccBbhxyr21o2Mda5Hqa714ip1B3OyESpv23_guotSlFrTYd2KvkYpy_2XUDk7iI/s320/DSC00696.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMAI1hK9Xpwj_bODl0kk7rRlDdIGdvPHM7ncoloCxreMIAKL38vpTn28eAU9u0DhxwErppS-aau6Mjfl8AZlYaPodbA1JPdQHq6CVMhvQR0Rmo3rTbE7JFUEp_eXQa5hFfIOQhKYJaMs/s1600/DSC00698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMAI1hK9Xpwj_bODl0kk7rRlDdIGdvPHM7ncoloCxreMIAKL38vpTn28eAU9u0DhxwErppS-aau6Mjfl8AZlYaPodbA1JPdQHq6CVMhvQR0Rmo3rTbE7JFUEp_eXQa5hFfIOQhKYJaMs/s320/DSC00698.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedZTHF3DoeZ2vZKk2FxDPVSL4dA9qN6P5yUdv_OMbiy3ZUxOmlJVJIrbLo3U_AUC2rHXhGkMoF-bswqXOnfAlgE9vl5ntDIPZoScWEa_tuYQkeBhD1z5-4ijli5zalS4KdIMTj4ewa6E/s1600/DSC00699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedZTHF3DoeZ2vZKk2FxDPVSL4dA9qN6P5yUdv_OMbiy3ZUxOmlJVJIrbLo3U_AUC2rHXhGkMoF-bswqXOnfAlgE9vl5ntDIPZoScWEa_tuYQkeBhD1z5-4ijli5zalS4KdIMTj4ewa6E/s320/DSC00699.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2bmKWonX2zmWkaNZsErT-o9ui8IpEBzkMdTJfCPL4jg6iFGVusZ1wPULVS5ti27i8eVLZ4hg-amS11hGUpvEcK7UQXU18u2_VV_34C2oeWoChHRDZW3n_BzGGlZsKnjS-plRyFBMTsg/s1600/DSC00703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2bmKWonX2zmWkaNZsErT-o9ui8IpEBzkMdTJfCPL4jg6iFGVusZ1wPULVS5ti27i8eVLZ4hg-amS11hGUpvEcK7UQXU18u2_VV_34C2oeWoChHRDZW3n_BzGGlZsKnjS-plRyFBMTsg/s320/DSC00703.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BU1V1Pgkp2zWFBPGkg8XBPhHThv3aUw-VzZ5sE3jKcCWAhojaWwWYFqP7ISrZg4X8Xb4ZjpFLI9SiFJAEt2-czW8-32kPe7LlAJgHI8Ioh8hvzEPdTZFf2rgHxf1mkKOroddSFYIbhQ/s1600/DSC00704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BU1V1Pgkp2zWFBPGkg8XBPhHThv3aUw-VzZ5sE3jKcCWAhojaWwWYFqP7ISrZg4X8Xb4ZjpFLI9SiFJAEt2-czW8-32kPe7LlAJgHI8Ioh8hvzEPdTZFf2rgHxf1mkKOroddSFYIbhQ/s320/DSC00704.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdL4BiuWuDBEh-Rohyphenhyphen4hTKKQMlBK8_enuUiO1LHtDqXXT8i-Dcf-f0CP2gQmGtrztnv8mjsCZhKgAaIBq3-nPyyjlvkin99NflzQ8dx7hnv8E3x11XPxM-cjf2fKBeZvxpyaNoZDHWAC8/s1600/DSC00709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdL4BiuWuDBEh-Rohyphenhyphen4hTKKQMlBK8_enuUiO1LHtDqXXT8i-Dcf-f0CP2gQmGtrztnv8mjsCZhKgAaIBq3-nPyyjlvkin99NflzQ8dx7hnv8E3x11XPxM-cjf2fKBeZvxpyaNoZDHWAC8/s320/DSC00709.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Esther</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGfQ7YKoNOE7nKDR0R2vZkbq0QVX0cKzUdHZY5kXHQgEy4mZa21XbLhQFpL4zo3dr_1aHc8XEOfI6yFozepu1jRxx0VWYrS4pD194vX19V2Sk55TH78zDbn49-2Tp8Z8SdiLtd3bifFv8/s1600/DSC00711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGfQ7YKoNOE7nKDR0R2vZkbq0QVX0cKzUdHZY5kXHQgEy4mZa21XbLhQFpL4zo3dr_1aHc8XEOfI6yFozepu1jRxx0VWYrS4pD194vX19V2Sk55TH78zDbn49-2Tp8Z8SdiLtd3bifFv8/s320/DSC00711.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjyKi1-CiFEWiq0XUHvafrWEcmONE6wfujOrb61cZc2nTnb64J11-5hMY2zosf9SVA3DKgApKYZpwM5JiTX1osIz8YeqMAzaPZ6CFt3uTljtOwhl2eRfQWYB4P0iw08qSp4qci71_tPE/s1600/DSC00715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjyKi1-CiFEWiq0XUHvafrWEcmONE6wfujOrb61cZc2nTnb64J11-5hMY2zosf9SVA3DKgApKYZpwM5JiTX1osIz8YeqMAzaPZ6CFt3uTljtOwhl2eRfQWYB4P0iw08qSp4qci71_tPE/s320/DSC00715.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhLIc30hrLcz5aG6d8t5rwETxkKYMQPbAJ9jaW5fpXTgsbjHwU2x9Oe3tLXvWVMIOIkmK5YqcblHEo7ZqmBQMM0wmBeYh046BU-6Aq6Ecj_1RhWuGDCZSZseZ3pu8yru3RWsh4tBKjwk/s1600/DSC00717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhLIc30hrLcz5aG6d8t5rwETxkKYMQPbAJ9jaW5fpXTgsbjHwU2x9Oe3tLXvWVMIOIkmK5YqcblHEo7ZqmBQMM0wmBeYh046BU-6Aq6Ecj_1RhWuGDCZSZseZ3pu8yru3RWsh4tBKjwk/s320/DSC00717.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jemimah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K0LBv4T2mOCLTwOXhzFOdA1FZZZFVX_MU4M_50KFg2dtBQS6gOquBdwuV4xrAZQqUaQslqaxJiv1FY_8zNv18kRmOsBiNh5X4XJiRmasjLAnqosFdmkx_vgaE1jKp9DbGRf86aYgIwI/s1600/DSC00721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K0LBv4T2mOCLTwOXhzFOdA1FZZZFVX_MU4M_50KFg2dtBQS6gOquBdwuV4xrAZQqUaQslqaxJiv1FY_8zNv18kRmOsBiNh5X4XJiRmasjLAnqosFdmkx_vgaE1jKp9DbGRf86aYgIwI/s320/DSC00721.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silvia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdlao2ffmJqoY3M2VuYBLYwhUqpePw5HKgE7kIg0NTURh-mCozng7NNyJPNZRog5P0VjYFF8-u1TxPPB0piVI2kxCF3NW7gcue1fuKdYYkpcccnVsuTceblHMpgA_kfeeaENPsb6sYJg/s1600/DSC00726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdlao2ffmJqoY3M2VuYBLYwhUqpePw5HKgE7kIg0NTURh-mCozng7NNyJPNZRog5P0VjYFF8-u1TxPPB0piVI2kxCF3NW7gcue1fuKdYYkpcccnVsuTceblHMpgA_kfeeaENPsb6sYJg/s320/DSC00726.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7SRZBprpCgic12b_LQztI-KDdJQK1YiI4tEUuRQ99gRQ8Z0t9Pdzzydj6AOciRrxGZHMGl3MW37ro0Kkxe-gmRgkZHBSU0xYca_oSM4fUdPsA0T3qixqoDcOlS7UnbcwEnHt-npRD18/s1600/DSC00729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7SRZBprpCgic12b_LQztI-KDdJQK1YiI4tEUuRQ99gRQ8Z0t9Pdzzydj6AOciRrxGZHMGl3MW37ro0Kkxe-gmRgkZHBSU0xYca_oSM4fUdPsA0T3qixqoDcOlS7UnbcwEnHt-npRD18/s320/DSC00729.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNl1LfRfQ7_GKHGrpT5LuETPRbR6GFz5wb5OvSeOU_pdrgv8VCdtad18RSF2viO36SbWXs8dhsr9m18RyAitf2c76rHfEFzQddZnk717BBZSBAyYYgA3-B_l6HOR-j43NOltLopGuMtI/s1600/DSC00735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNl1LfRfQ7_GKHGrpT5LuETPRbR6GFz5wb5OvSeOU_pdrgv8VCdtad18RSF2viO36SbWXs8dhsr9m18RyAitf2c76rHfEFzQddZnk717BBZSBAyYYgA3-B_l6HOR-j43NOltLopGuMtI/s320/DSC00735.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_HpcewBHYVN3t_DqVzks9rZkEtvne1Nlyfu1qlkaj17-NBJTrgt6Z4lbossxJEYGIMJm2LoSCKXvA_tCU4oc1QBRAJ86MCf_whpskgk2Ebwq4dfxTYOKcegZQfyKtAlbrywmKTggolQ/s1600/DSC00738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_HpcewBHYVN3t_DqVzks9rZkEtvne1Nlyfu1qlkaj17-NBJTrgt6Z4lbossxJEYGIMJm2LoSCKXvA_tCU4oc1QBRAJ86MCf_whpskgk2Ebwq4dfxTYOKcegZQfyKtAlbrywmKTggolQ/s320/DSC00738.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ0S_W4dNaPVfRhKJp2XKCWRATgh36VdQ25u4s3dxRJz0PyJ3LV5Z1X6lNnsdr9kcd5hPxaUDEHTCMli9Ul7gapLq1zZnq3iMaUI8tFxgotonQJBBpTkhcAL7bF0b0nCs2QuzKks64Tk/s1600/DSC00739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ0S_W4dNaPVfRhKJp2XKCWRATgh36VdQ25u4s3dxRJz0PyJ3LV5Z1X6lNnsdr9kcd5hPxaUDEHTCMli9Ul7gapLq1zZnq3iMaUI8tFxgotonQJBBpTkhcAL7bF0b0nCs2QuzKks64Tk/s320/DSC00739.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhcvB38k192462y-VILmJAt_NP_N7V19V8fmbhLXs2H_wXLSK72KhOc0XCfNzLNMd2W7P_ccAMU2DukWd609qoR6ccRA6GKtrNmmHUp37UV2myoY8Hqy7sYuYBakeBxjr8GdyHhisE7w/s1600/DSC00743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhcvB38k192462y-VILmJAt_NP_N7V19V8fmbhLXs2H_wXLSK72KhOc0XCfNzLNMd2W7P_ccAMU2DukWd609qoR6ccRA6GKtrNmmHUp37UV2myoY8Hqy7sYuYBakeBxjr8GdyHhisE7w/s320/DSC00743.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joanne<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipb6xkXZ6d0TRWFtBtWdkc8en936QDefZNq_YlN6pJ51Eilcr-gZmQ9vxVm1zJNBKBUpNsdTeBGvCGu8ye2JVYvoeypo3sbyGrZNg4wk7JTkvlcwjVYSWYCGHstn_dSn1juBo-ImRs_RY/s1600/DSC00746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipb6xkXZ6d0TRWFtBtWdkc8en936QDefZNq_YlN6pJ51Eilcr-gZmQ9vxVm1zJNBKBUpNsdTeBGvCGu8ye2JVYvoeypo3sbyGrZNg4wk7JTkvlcwjVYSWYCGHstn_dSn1juBo-ImRs_RY/s320/DSC00746.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySIrbyCA1EZ2mlFLE8sh8vskvEQ0VdCiSSs902hDd0xM81iZ0Pj8XOZJE5DCDbtSf9bFKyV-W5H4lg7NmSsbNb01se_H9CGcut7abRIDl0WZywgS_uFRbwvxsDGG6SNOb3P5bpygTUR4/s1600/DSC00747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySIrbyCA1EZ2mlFLE8sh8vskvEQ0VdCiSSs902hDd0xM81iZ0Pj8XOZJE5DCDbtSf9bFKyV-W5H4lg7NmSsbNb01se_H9CGcut7abRIDl0WZywgS_uFRbwvxsDGG6SNOb3P5bpygTUR4/s320/DSC00747.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipaTTDtDq4Iy4d9qrlyHnGeOgBVJwSNupZGYLCWsCVQmOqPVdQJFaG0NPajfULv6fyK8v64101mWEtnVprJJk936kASjVtIAG_QMTwwj4hgQNPpD-RH60ZVgGwBGSVwOYpu0dXxgbzrbM/s1600/DSC00749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipaTTDtDq4Iy4d9qrlyHnGeOgBVJwSNupZGYLCWsCVQmOqPVdQJFaG0NPajfULv6fyK8v64101mWEtnVprJJk936kASjVtIAG_QMTwwj4hgQNPpD-RH60ZVgGwBGSVwOYpu0dXxgbzrbM/s320/DSC00749.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXZvjv8zvkXNRRpEFryn5ik0nsIxBw6XM8oxLuoUm1tYctQ5Tgkhm96wm-8vcM446Uq25ayMiKv_8IQQ7uoc1VkxGCGoReigiVjZAVSOLUbQYU_9J8tWZwiDg4fVu9CZK_6oT_eK8m24/s1600/DSC00753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXZvjv8zvkXNRRpEFryn5ik0nsIxBw6XM8oxLuoUm1tYctQ5Tgkhm96wm-8vcM446Uq25ayMiKv_8IQQ7uoc1VkxGCGoReigiVjZAVSOLUbQYU_9J8tWZwiDg4fVu9CZK_6oT_eK8m24/s320/DSC00753.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jemimah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaZtv6-rz_uZzvwAgRzWzJBJh0EXoJEVYBGOoQjctFwe24UjpVznqQI_7e3iRbrCEvyQoAUypRd1wGesGr7_jujpTABCcXkq84svppONjrjwl7SrW-mxa04hjuvpuGFhsnko0KjCGN7M/s1600/DSC00755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaZtv6-rz_uZzvwAgRzWzJBJh0EXoJEVYBGOoQjctFwe24UjpVznqQI_7e3iRbrCEvyQoAUypRd1wGesGr7_jujpTABCcXkq84svppONjrjwl7SrW-mxa04hjuvpuGFhsnko0KjCGN7M/s320/DSC00755.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEine9JbmT0qfiqYaqNuRwX7FN4yc-_YaIppVPVEnI23p57x4aludbeCj74YMA-CzxWXb5eUcspinvwBFkUDMhA7j-PgvOwnHVYWXN7VqeC3NgrmrjSLfPzc8Je1YlAOwItj6Sy_8g6i4SE/s1600/DSC00761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEine9JbmT0qfiqYaqNuRwX7FN4yc-_YaIppVPVEnI23p57x4aludbeCj74YMA-CzxWXb5eUcspinvwBFkUDMhA7j-PgvOwnHVYWXN7VqeC3NgrmrjSLfPzc8Je1YlAOwItj6Sy_8g6i4SE/s320/DSC00761.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-qy-KpIw2rIk1kb4DB69Fk3m0yFIwjKQUS25GBJa-zW02RGd_w3HZG5UtYIWqy_mwEXzOCAY6c1k1vpNtcCk_ymt0o1JZtXIY5b707NcV12IonxZJ2QQzqP8GZCg4n9YOuooYS0oIcM/s1600/DSC00764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-qy-KpIw2rIk1kb4DB69Fk3m0yFIwjKQUS25GBJa-zW02RGd_w3HZG5UtYIWqy_mwEXzOCAY6c1k1vpNtcCk_ymt0o1JZtXIY5b707NcV12IonxZJ2QQzqP8GZCg4n9YOuooYS0oIcM/s320/DSC00764.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silvia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJxkV-1kDYu7ofsoxHYXLcXhiHgHe-AsI-vOdVfa7u_-RpXJA8r3Gg5J_QlvHfdt6baYXUUqrVdBdUwvcAK9F4lQ85lyHPqK3yAZFxh7yQep6nJImCymwYGNBOdwgHNd7aPxXunPAOA8/s1600/DSC00767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJxkV-1kDYu7ofsoxHYXLcXhiHgHe-AsI-vOdVfa7u_-RpXJA8r3Gg5J_QlvHfdt6baYXUUqrVdBdUwvcAK9F4lQ85lyHPqK3yAZFxh7yQep6nJImCymwYGNBOdwgHNd7aPxXunPAOA8/s320/DSC00767.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maria</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSh7vfIaQ077c4dd7QKGS39FtuY_MsStIsmC9yphl6bnRRKpFOfdQfE-cEbbsw3EPxnXzOjNpEFwI8FQVbbveACmMLk1vSCiGic_N7ExH6aT21LQsBHb83GI9PTmVDR-sd9sx-fy2krRg/s1600/DSC00772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSh7vfIaQ077c4dd7QKGS39FtuY_MsStIsmC9yphl6bnRRKpFOfdQfE-cEbbsw3EPxnXzOjNpEFwI8FQVbbveACmMLk1vSCiGic_N7ExH6aT21LQsBHb83GI9PTmVDR-sd9sx-fy2krRg/s320/DSC00772.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1MJoPFq9OySHChrj3JCbCECKivwBmdDroWcSkX-GV3KWWoDo20b4gNTa0UNvg_G9Jptp8Sr-zh8fj56NotRP02y912KJlGwckVH2J-fe5yEyY52Dfv16zscDhX-DEJc1nFd_gGnhG_g/s1600/DSC00773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1MJoPFq9OySHChrj3JCbCECKivwBmdDroWcSkX-GV3KWWoDo20b4gNTa0UNvg_G9Jptp8Sr-zh8fj56NotRP02y912KJlGwckVH2J-fe5yEyY52Dfv16zscDhX-DEJc1nFd_gGnhG_g/s320/DSC00773.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgJCSxPfxF3_AJN3b8aI8y5Q_GhZ9jWYOXtpmQ_3rcPKSsXbDN5lnApllfnmF6OKKhM9rqHhPNrpHUVxf1W-cJAFhD3nyZj6hMH7BULT3-c5FZVDLIAmgXRahU6tHZ_UCSSoTrpsRvB8/s1600/DSC00778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgJCSxPfxF3_AJN3b8aI8y5Q_GhZ9jWYOXtpmQ_3rcPKSsXbDN5lnApllfnmF6OKKhM9rqHhPNrpHUVxf1W-cJAFhD3nyZj6hMH7BULT3-c5FZVDLIAmgXRahU6tHZ_UCSSoTrpsRvB8/s320/DSC00778.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nafBP07kAxlJ8CyIEsiY6F2GpUArOqqmCdulL8Kt9dpAvtyzkiBvTP4fCRil_XxymJFM5y3gzJVbyw2GqXxgaaR8D8lBQu6eLjBc3cHetyWDx7hW_r89Lm52n2JGr6zg6v7TKJ1OZlk/s1600/DSC00782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nafBP07kAxlJ8CyIEsiY6F2GpUArOqqmCdulL8Kt9dpAvtyzkiBvTP4fCRil_XxymJFM5y3gzJVbyw2GqXxgaaR8D8lBQu6eLjBc3cHetyWDx7hW_r89Lm52n2JGr6zg6v7TKJ1OZlk/s320/DSC00782.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjG7RG45RBrF2VlFehceyhXGLT4ZUTvErspYBdNrmgFOHPGhvwQ10awZiq-kywn1GXKG5XCSgpA7oBRcbOyjZLrZ8wXOvspdMskRy8lwgr91pGBMjRL2kkMZw1MDtyXKiQ28ujsOZLKhs/s1600/DSC00785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjG7RG45RBrF2VlFehceyhXGLT4ZUTvErspYBdNrmgFOHPGhvwQ10awZiq-kywn1GXKG5XCSgpA7oBRcbOyjZLrZ8wXOvspdMskRy8lwgr91pGBMjRL2kkMZw1MDtyXKiQ28ujsOZLKhs/s320/DSC00785.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDiBXELycEeqTA4orndScY8hlyoYPR4GNPwMB3swYbv9hmJ1-syKvWGRW6Mo3RqX3YXWk8x1mgHXhsaE4ImTW6Omw00vx0hCMcNUOzVrn_iuMEOKswD-RD9Nrl7ioG7yF9GLje-BFGPPk/s1600/DSC00792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDiBXELycEeqTA4orndScY8hlyoYPR4GNPwMB3swYbv9hmJ1-syKvWGRW6Mo3RqX3YXWk8x1mgHXhsaE4ImTW6Omw00vx0hCMcNUOzVrn_iuMEOKswD-RD9Nrl7ioG7yF9GLje-BFGPPk/s320/DSC00792.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ronald</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg151ZTnnqCC84oSGQSCmoRErz9Cw-p4bxDOqYhJVpm1breWLfDPkBhYYat2L7o3IvMBAkQtkaMCloCy3YsW-qXUxOgid8AvqEirwfATZhD4KkI3iLrHAvIPtyhq6c5TH1RSHSwsIJCe1s/s1600/DSC00796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg151ZTnnqCC84oSGQSCmoRErz9Cw-p4bxDOqYhJVpm1breWLfDPkBhYYat2L7o3IvMBAkQtkaMCloCy3YsW-qXUxOgid8AvqEirwfATZhD4KkI3iLrHAvIPtyhq6c5TH1RSHSwsIJCe1s/s320/DSC00796.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gytvpm60RhywlhkC0cdcWq1DHiiSXa7DsGGIxYJoQ-8GXug9lkila-iRP7gnNFcZukAInO3ZbnK9mhnDNLQASHXPongSwChy2Yf1sgq62FKBNfCUsr8RfwWpqAGVU0IE9FAmyH22ptY/s1600/DSC00799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gytvpm60RhywlhkC0cdcWq1DHiiSXa7DsGGIxYJoQ-8GXug9lkila-iRP7gnNFcZukAInO3ZbnK9mhnDNLQASHXPongSwChy2Yf1sgq62FKBNfCUsr8RfwWpqAGVU0IE9FAmyH22ptY/s320/DSC00799.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpwmvZdzLFNtypQzG_JewUqoh6llnxtvW2Z7MeOuL0Uyef0Vq8lr49gCJ19QjLB2WOMHceDShOjj_EckqJ8Ly8jVsSpBngYuSkdeOiuFxlyrsNcuNDTxZ0-Kp8LfNQdptFx54Ny_BgFc/s1600/DSC00706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpwmvZdzLFNtypQzG_JewUqoh6llnxtvW2Z7MeOuL0Uyef0Vq8lr49gCJ19QjLB2WOMHceDShOjj_EckqJ8Ly8jVsSpBngYuSkdeOiuFxlyrsNcuNDTxZ0-Kp8LfNQdptFx54Ny_BgFc/s320/DSC00706.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hope - "One day it will be my turn!" </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
They then wanted to dance for joy. So on the beach, I used my iPod to play a few songs that allowed us to just sing and dance for joy to the Lord! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vqZdELGKwY0JrWx0JP9yBq20kssI_RWHcJ81734vbEYPa9Qe0MRg_aTc180qwbEcpsrL7CiJ5xslfD4smrlrrRzDB8kr4IFWxkRiyKFSS_7sqyS2hdLmXzbB2x59YY6CpS2J4SXVV3I/s1600/DSC00808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vqZdELGKwY0JrWx0JP9yBq20kssI_RWHcJ81734vbEYPa9Qe0MRg_aTc180qwbEcpsrL7CiJ5xslfD4smrlrrRzDB8kr4IFWxkRiyKFSS_7sqyS2hdLmXzbB2x59YY6CpS2J4SXVV3I/s320/DSC00808.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hillary & Henry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdwu9QyDLbQQaock8nOGWwHz0xq_SFcNZkOGnVcxQx1iYXJFPkeGrMLfLs_hbdsE78g298wjbHpD1sEvU-wPTjtvI4xOqDCr20fXCKJ-J1dSc5LQ-ncy8ccB6BtQ71OdhZlPLXAvGQdE8/s1600/DSC00813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdwu9QyDLbQQaock8nOGWwHz0xq_SFcNZkOGnVcxQx1iYXJFPkeGrMLfLs_hbdsE78g298wjbHpD1sEvU-wPTjtvI4xOqDCr20fXCKJ-J1dSc5LQ-ncy8ccB6BtQ71OdhZlPLXAvGQdE8/s320/DSC00813.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henry, Jonathan & Hillary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>We were not yet done. </b>Mrs. Otile suggested that we drive by the <b>Entebbe Airport </b>which was only about five minutes away. We had saved time not having to go to another beach. We were doing well with time wanting to beat the afternoon traffic traveling home. Mrs. Otile thought that many of them had never seen a real plane. She also thought it important that they see where Godfrey takes me once I leave them to head back to California. We couldn’t go into the airport but they were so excited that we were able to at least see UN planes and visualize now where I am when we say I am at the airport! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Thanks for hanging in there with me as I know this update was long. There is one more thing that completed this tremendous gift. <b>On the way home we surprised them and stopped to get chicken on a stick for everyone with roasted bananas which I now understand are called gonja.</b> Try buying thirty two chicken on a sticks! Godfrey and I actually get out of the bus and go down to were they are actually cooking them on the grill. This guarantees they are fresh and hot, not waving in the hands of the sellers on the road for who knows how long! <b>THEY LOVED IT! </b>My favorite was watch little Jael eat that chicken down to the bone! She enjoyed every little bit of the meat! There was nothing left! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyC6NETQeftEW4ReXKt9vrXIPYSSkijPUUDWZYhd78tKeG3wtvDLMYwy1ColaD7XS0rkMSoxCzjB-Q0oWnQTsebt1Jh9WjM-6iLioklYNfWrO2_0ye_CpQEwXckXn7EjchoecSFD3bUz8/s1600/Zoo+14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyC6NETQeftEW4ReXKt9vrXIPYSSkijPUUDWZYhd78tKeG3wtvDLMYwy1ColaD7XS0rkMSoxCzjB-Q0oWnQTsebt1Jh9WjM-6iLioklYNfWrO2_0ye_CpQEwXckXn7EjchoecSFD3bUz8/s320/Zoo+14.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roadside chicken on a stick stop! Venders all swarm the vehicles that stop. They are not allowed to cross the road so we park on the opposite side so they can't do this to us! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4z9QaaevoG0hmUgGPMFffgkNnI5KLf6ZtJm5hcwapsPDXAJPeW_EayxwJudsB0IGnsxYFRLbXX63RlGP5hNLwAIXzcpo54LxXFhpE224AmKlu0eh3gJlGGbZJcrKYMi3hVHY_E2vPXLU/s1600/Zoo+11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4z9QaaevoG0hmUgGPMFffgkNnI5KLf6ZtJm5hcwapsPDXAJPeW_EayxwJudsB0IGnsxYFRLbXX63RlGP5hNLwAIXzcpo54LxXFhpE224AmKlu0eh3gJlGGbZJcrKYMi3hVHY_E2vPXLU/s320/Zoo+11.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken on a stick hot off the grill (and not filled with dust from the road!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAtQpE19cevtNEoC_zjQSKaGXMh5S9m2thY7W8eIRRjVG_AfWzPBWtJZNQibIiVaYN-iBPBSGAyft9lGA5CTBynuN-R18OQdKk4WBE0Wgig8QBc6qGxIr8rY5KahH29jrh09avkmLFq4/s1600/Zoo+12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAtQpE19cevtNEoC_zjQSKaGXMh5S9m2thY7W8eIRRjVG_AfWzPBWtJZNQibIiVaYN-iBPBSGAyft9lGA5CTBynuN-R18OQdKk4WBE0Wgig8QBc6qGxIr8rY5KahH29jrh09avkmLFq4/s320/Zoo+12.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jael & Jireh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucg2LITnBEoHAoopGLnGh1V2e3_IEW6ulYYYui8sO3eyyyjgGH2dDmM4YVXT0RzSvZ423VGikvXiSuRxVh7JFlRvPDs8-FG_cIcnX6jUcssRxEnFBrhbFUJyC7n1V4grKfya-8mkiX4E/s1600/Zoo+13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucg2LITnBEoHAoopGLnGh1V2e3_IEW6ulYYYui8sO3eyyyjgGH2dDmM4YVXT0RzSvZ423VGikvXiSuRxVh7JFlRvPDs8-FG_cIcnX6jUcssRxEnFBrhbFUJyC7n1V4grKfya-8mkiX4E/s320/Zoo+13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy way to end our amazing day at the zoo! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
We actually made it back in great timing missing most of the traffic in Kampala. It was still daylight outside when we returned which really made us happy. Because of the long day, we gathered together for a time of sharing testimonies but not do our discipleship study. The testimonies were tremendous and I will share some of those in another update. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>When I asked if having the trip to the zoo was a good Christmas gift...THEY BEGAN TO SHOUT ... YES, YES YES! </b>The simplicity of this day trip is something that will last a lifetime. You have a part in creating a memory they will never forget. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I want to thank each of you that gave above and beyond your monthly donation towards their Christmas gifts. Be assured that this gift is given to the children from ALL of you. They wanted me to make sure that I thanked everyone back home for caring so much for them that you would bless them with such a tremendous gift. You made their Christmas extra special. </div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Love you, Mama Eydie Kisakye </div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-5560344513671291402017-01-23T20:56:00.000-08:002017-01-23T20:57:57.686-08:00Chapter 23 - Update #6 - Christmas Gifts & Trip to the Zoo - Part 1 <div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjP5Uj6Fa4nmZ-vaa5cm1E7fnyFsWaxDaxIsZVdrOOvNvGovyqgZOa5fX5R_zIo_MFBFLpF7vH34PEwDqjhpHrJzqiQunAVpUPs63iL91yBSYehS8oQcmNIOwX6TpyLgTiXvP6TgbbwSg/s1600/RH_beaconofhope_logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjP5Uj6Fa4nmZ-vaa5cm1E7fnyFsWaxDaxIsZVdrOOvNvGovyqgZOa5fX5R_zIo_MFBFLpF7vH34PEwDqjhpHrJzqiQunAVpUPs63iL91yBSYehS8oQcmNIOwX6TpyLgTiXvP6TgbbwSg/s200/RH_beaconofhope_logo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
With our new Beacon of Hope sponsorship we made a few significant changes. One of these changes involves individual gift giving. In the past, whenever I would travel to Uganda, some of our sponsors would send an individual gift for their child. Yet because our children all live under the same roof as one family, it was starting to cause favoritism and division. This is different from other organizations whose children don’t live together. Our Ugandan staff requested that individual gifts no longer be sent. Instead, when I travel to Uganda, I request for monetary gifts to be given so that we can give equal gifts or one large gift that benefits the whole family. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
This Christmas, I sent word out the those who specifically sponsor a child to participate in this year’s Christmas gift for Raining Hope. Every sponsor was not required to give an additional monetary gift on top of their monthly donation. Due to some large donations, we received enough to do some very special things for our children this Christmas and it was all done in the name of ALL sponsors. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>One of their Christmas gifts from sponsors was something I mentioned in update #5. We bought each girl at Raining Hope a skirt & undergarments, and the boys a shirt & pair of trousers. </b>Something that Silvia said when they were giving thanks for the gift of clothing was how they now know what it means to dress fashionably! When you see many photos of children in Africa, many times you see clothes that are mismatched. What I didn’t realize was through the years that your support has provided clothing, they have been learning how to dress well. Even though our shopping is at the local market like a swap meet, we always try to find the best. Over the years I have also brought clothing with teams from America. What we give away turns out to be treasures for them. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Second gift</b> came from something I talked about in update #4. I challenged everyone to have a <b>“Thanks Living Basket” or use a journal</b> to write down one thing every night they are thankful for. Because our theme this year is prayer, I had them go one step further and pray a prayer of thanksgiving for that item as soon as they write it. We were able to buy a journal for each student that they began using right away! They also began using the journals to take notes in each night that we had discipleship training. I will talk about that more next update! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Third gift were the TWO parties that we had for the children! </b> One I have already talked about on New Year’s Day also in Update #4. The feast of food and soda is always something that the children love and do not take for granted. The second feast was on the second Sunday before I traveled back to California. More about that to come in another update so stay tuned! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I saved the best for last to explain the<b> major gift</b> that we gave to the children as their Christmas present. We took an educational field trip to the zoo in Entebbe! Not only was it a <b>major gift</b> from sponsors but it was a <b>major event</b> in the lives of these children. You may be thinking of a trip to the zoo you have taken in your own city. I would like for you to clear your mind of any preconceived notions or your own experiences of a visit to the zoo in America. <b>Now get ready to see a visit to the zoo through the eyes of our children. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>First,</b> contrary to what you may think, the area we live in is not populated with animals such as lions (thank goodness), giraffes, or zebras just roaming around! The most I see are the occasional monkey but mostly birds. So a trip to the zoo is the one opportunity most of the children will ever have to see these animals up close. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Second,</b> this is something that they have been wanting to do for quite some time but we have not had the funds to do it. A child in Uganda may go to the zoo once in their lifetime mainly during primary school years. Out of our twenty seven children only four have ever gone to the zoo with their school. On top of that, those four that have gone did so when they were very young. The majority of our children have never gone to Entebbe let alone out of the Jinja area. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Godfrey did a little fishing to see if this would be something they would love to have as their Christmas gift as a family. The children are smart. When he started “hypothetically” speaking about it, the response was this, “Uncle, don’t sing that same song if it is not really going to happen!” That made me chuckle but it also convinced me that this was something they really wanted to do. <b>Little did I know how important this trip would turn out to be. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The gift would include many parts to make it work. <b>We needed to rent a bus</b> to carry all thirty two of us to Entebbe. Godfrey originally thought we could rent a smaller bus plus take our van. But because our tires are in need of replacing we didn’t want to take a chance on driving it to Entebbe twice. We would need to drive to the airport on Monday. We wanted to reserve the van for that. From the time that Godfrey began checking on prices to rent the bus, it had increased in cost like everything else because of the famine. Thankfully, Robert & Charles at the hotel helped to secure a bus at the original prices we looked into. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
We didn’t tell the children until the night before that we were going to the zoo. We wanted it to be a complete surprise. It is just as hard to keep a secret in Uganda as it is in the US! Godfrey almost blew the surprise the day before. He wanted Silvia to go and pay the water and electricity bill on Wednesday afternoon. It was getting late and her comment was, “I am in the middle of something so I will go first thing tomorrow morning.” Godfrey said he almost blurted out, “You can’t go tomorrow because we are going to the zoo!” He stopped himself just short of those words coming out of his mouth! But I used that to my advantage when we broke the good news! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
After our discipleship time on Wednesday night, we began looking over the schedule for the next few days working backwards from my leaving on Monday. When I got to the schedule for Thursday, I asked Silvia, “Are you going to pay the bills for the water and electricity tomorrow?” After she said, “Yes, I will,” I said, “Ok but would you rather do that or go with us to the zoo?” The room was stunned as if they did not hear me correctly. After I repeated, <b>“YES! WE ARE GOING TO THE ZOO TOMORROW!” the room erupted in PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING! </b>They began shouting and dancing and singing to the Lord! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I explained we would have to leave by 5:00 am in order to beat the traffic. It would take over three hours to travel to Entebbe and that is without any traffic. No one had a problem getting up early. I actually think that most of them could not sleep that night! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
After dropping me off at the hotel late Wednesday night, <b>Godfrey, Hillary and Henry went into town to buy supplies for the trip.</b> <b> The Christmas gift would include food for and soda for traveling. </b>Hillary, Jonathan and Vivian did double duty and stayed up to make chapati for our breakfast. In the morning they scrambled eggs and added it to the chapati to make<b> “breakfast burritos” </b>or as I discovered later they are called a <b>“rolex!” </b> I found this out because on the trip I noticed signs on the road that advertised, “Chapati, chicken, or rolex.” When I asked what a rolex was they said, “chapati with the eggs rolled inside like what we are eating!” They got a good laugh when I said in America a Rolex was a very expensive watch! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQEjUo74zzKywyQKP6dNC0gBlWWPF7voC5IsNcNUmWPJUjDUCMKdPTNxFASXYV_yXrWNgXSO2JDH8d9wDB7Ox5gsk_nIuplewetZRZMXpbkjTsqEYVFdvVPfW5F-Jrq6mWTjTHS4e1KY/s1600/DSC00402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQEjUo74zzKywyQKP6dNC0gBlWWPF7voC5IsNcNUmWPJUjDUCMKdPTNxFASXYV_yXrWNgXSO2JDH8d9wDB7Ox5gsk_nIuplewetZRZMXpbkjTsqEYVFdvVPfW5F-Jrq6mWTjTHS4e1KY/s320/DSC00402.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6CJnpxNVn_7jmoBz1rYm6QpN2O1LdkTHmrKU-89CjWyKTYuKPo4j43jb6_b1UQIIX86VWU_2HGbpwQMdiawutxdSGwdBQPq6QYBIn_6xnrziw5iseyQNtdkLY8Kt7HxOg3VpkdlaOOQ/s1600/DSC00394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6CJnpxNVn_7jmoBz1rYm6QpN2O1LdkTHmrKU-89CjWyKTYuKPo4j43jb6_b1UQIIX86VWU_2HGbpwQMdiawutxdSGwdBQPq6QYBIn_6xnrziw5iseyQNtdkLY8Kt7HxOg3VpkdlaOOQ/s320/DSC00394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The bus actually was an hour late because the driver’s bus was blocked in by other vehicles. Even with the delay, we made it through Kampala with minimal traffic. People were still on holiday and the traffic was relatively light. <b>Godfrey became like one of those tour guides on buses that would point out the various sights to eager eyes & curious hearts! </b> He made the trip an educational one knowing that most of our children had never been out of our area. I watched in wonder the look on the faces of the children as Godfrey spoke. He pointed out where he used to live in Mukono. Through Kampala he pointed out where he went to school. One of the things that was larger than life was pointing out Mandela Stadium. This is where the Uganda Cranes futbol/soccer team play. For most they had only seen the stadium on TV. Some made a comment that it was a dream to drive past the stadium! Godfrey pointed out for me the village of Katwe which is where the movie, “Queen of Katwe” was based. Funny, we pass through Katwe when driving through Kampala but I never had paid attention to it until watching the film. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2uTwTfhwzk9nF7S9pnn_0LBo115t8xa_-TAWbpfdH398puVctsCD628LBrU2bdMPKYtEli5p_p_wUc4fbl7lTvQajclmgSR7L6U5aNxUl9RAiiCGzx8Rd0iSbAKzSgxkKDmSUn2R7II/s1600/DSC00445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2uTwTfhwzk9nF7S9pnn_0LBo115t8xa_-TAWbpfdH398puVctsCD628LBrU2bdMPKYtEli5p_p_wUc4fbl7lTvQajclmgSR7L6U5aNxUl9RAiiCGzx8Rd0iSbAKzSgxkKDmSUn2R7II/s320/DSC00445.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_GHgKMhuMS_8UpQdDEuiDT4LQHD-GsGugrsfm7Sr-FNAwaTJc2lPxKaozzZaKoQzt_IHzrDjWTEV0JI78HkfAIzjN-3F8rruYIR_FfEYCtvTl-EdaKAENn5Jnp7gQQjb9jaVgzXEvHY/s1600/DSC00450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_GHgKMhuMS_8UpQdDEuiDT4LQHD-GsGugrsfm7Sr-FNAwaTJc2lPxKaozzZaKoQzt_IHzrDjWTEV0JI78HkfAIzjN-3F8rruYIR_FfEYCtvTl-EdaKAENn5Jnp7gQQjb9jaVgzXEvHY/s320/DSC00450.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPnJN5MIl0Il9wNjnJK4EwpCUQiFJ_hU4JxKLdZjS7oDfNIwQomb_-YnxEO33ksDIxtnKm87So9j1uB9h1NlwR0b_b6QqhOplawjs6UiqBxFra8yaalDKDSfv1KlXBz0FlJXNAu1tWUU/s1600/DSC00464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPnJN5MIl0Il9wNjnJK4EwpCUQiFJ_hU4JxKLdZjS7oDfNIwQomb_-YnxEO33ksDIxtnKm87So9j1uB9h1NlwR0b_b6QqhOplawjs6UiqBxFra8yaalDKDSfv1KlXBz0FlJXNAu1tWUU/s320/DSC00464.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1VYAIzYeWl8tUO5DEdFoaJXpJDbkop5b0PW4u3wSkyhqUYqOSS2q9L6cM71bUMBRcpCDeb7N10UCNUz7zY5BHjGXlA5ycCbOAGXYh-7_7-EIRaMHx2M6GeGNJi76pPY2m8IObWnyk79g/s1600/DSC00494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1VYAIzYeWl8tUO5DEdFoaJXpJDbkop5b0PW4u3wSkyhqUYqOSS2q9L6cM71bUMBRcpCDeb7N10UCNUz7zY5BHjGXlA5ycCbOAGXYh-7_7-EIRaMHx2M6GeGNJi76pPY2m8IObWnyk79g/s320/DSC00494.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBSWw5YgpnUBKESnXv4pvlFnKBboyOog_AmKL6P6eYqFLX-ThyHTyGhyRMoblHU7cZDJ1tNpoBpT0VP9Jz0iYk9Q8yYlbu9z17eokMmxMeVVPURsJu_06DlpkruXyFaKkQ0lwNpdHnms/s1600/DSC00439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBSWw5YgpnUBKESnXv4pvlFnKBboyOog_AmKL6P6eYqFLX-ThyHTyGhyRMoblHU7cZDJ1tNpoBpT0VP9Jz0iYk9Q8yYlbu9z17eokMmxMeVVPURsJu_06DlpkruXyFaKkQ0lwNpdHnms/s320/DSC00439.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zjbu9gnZ0dHWZd4e9CxjOi5UazLI_Z200Drr0KM9GQbjhIJP_-7WrTmwI8FTWKb4ocYzO4LoRThGH2gI-MPfnr8gJZKLSfELHR2xaPEjG1AL519_ZULKyZaS80RgIfaPejOyoMNru5I/s1600/DSC00475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zjbu9gnZ0dHWZd4e9CxjOi5UazLI_Z200Drr0KM9GQbjhIJP_-7WrTmwI8FTWKb4ocYzO4LoRThGH2gI-MPfnr8gJZKLSfELHR2xaPEjG1AL519_ZULKyZaS80RgIfaPejOyoMNru5I/s320/DSC00475.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdzmdNeyvsShD13yv3rkwDO3J4eytLHJl_LqDBGJgiA6SzyFmevR9YYnehPMZ_E6YBcCdHC7OGclIrK8-uxYRNikYwUPo826VNFN-oS-vccmYZMEnMaro0Z3Ge_0z9KOp5wEztKmUlqg/s1600/DSC00487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdzmdNeyvsShD13yv3rkwDO3J4eytLHJl_LqDBGJgiA6SzyFmevR9YYnehPMZ_E6YBcCdHC7OGclIrK8-uxYRNikYwUPo826VNFN-oS-vccmYZMEnMaro0Z3Ge_0z9KOp5wEztKmUlqg/s320/DSC00487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSkHoBg6T1v6BSMlK_DQ-fG5N66g7OtbHb5BWdaIJ2k5nD3jD9Ifl_c-46J8jZSEWDuRV8rxLW7gZCW9uH6YzBFgw0l0v_9E6aGYtMAL0G4jLCWpefuX8SKw1nvhUqcR_u1WFwR8m5yM/s1600/DSC00476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSkHoBg6T1v6BSMlK_DQ-fG5N66g7OtbHb5BWdaIJ2k5nD3jD9Ifl_c-46J8jZSEWDuRV8rxLW7gZCW9uH6YzBFgw0l0v_9E6aGYtMAL0G4jLCWpefuX8SKw1nvhUqcR_u1WFwR8m5yM/s320/DSC00476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusMqZFnBIcmIfPZTthJiLJeKYeYT1sk59rxZAvQ4aamkfZ3O2ajp25G6YSzZZf_ZxUcUya3ezGsCUL4bG3yOXHfRayOkRPrpGVThlzTyEl2v_620OM4g-Uh0wnR1w-BddMFMcFxDgUVw/s1600/DSC00517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusMqZFnBIcmIfPZTthJiLJeKYeYT1sk59rxZAvQ4aamkfZ3O2ajp25G6YSzZZf_ZxUcUya3ezGsCUL4bG3yOXHfRayOkRPrpGVThlzTyEl2v_620OM4g-Uh0wnR1w-BddMFMcFxDgUVw/s320/DSC00517.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Many of the children had a hard time sleeping the night before with all the anticipation of the trip of a lifetime. Understandably, there were periods that Godfrey and I looked back and most of them were asleep! But as we got closer to Kampala & Entebbe, you could feel the excitement in the bus. <b>Their eyes were wide open and their hearts were full of thanksgiving for the opportunity to fulfill one of their dreams. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I discovered in talking to the students that they had missed opportunities for zoo trips with their schools in the past. I believe some of it comes from the lack of funds from parents to send them on the school sponsored trips. Hillary said that he didn’t think that a trip to the zoo was ever going to happen for him. <b>This Christmas gift that sponsors provided this year made dreams come true in ways that you can not even begin to fathom.</b> </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
This update is extremely long because I don’t want to leave anything out! But I also don't want to lose you in any of it. So I will split this up into two updates in order to talk about the actually day at the zoo and another bonus that you will be extremely excited to hear about! As you read this one I am writing part 2 so stay tuned! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
“You crown the year with bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.” Psalm 65:11.</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Mama Eydie Kisakye </div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-11388963795331481112017-01-17T04:35:00.002-08:002017-01-17T04:35:53.652-08:00Chapter 23 - Update #5 - January 5, 2017<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Thank you for waiting for the next update! I can not quite believe that it is already Sunday! This week has just flown by. As I write it is currently Saturday, January 7th. I am trying to grasp all that God has done. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Most mornings I stayed at the hotel trying to catch up on work. But I do most of it outside at the restaurant on the patio to make myself available. <b> It is one of the main reasons why updates take longer to publish. </b> <b>I am spending time with people </b>whether at the home, hotel or in town. This trip I had more conversations than normal with those who just come up to my table. I had strangers come and introduce themselves to me. I had Ugandans who came telling me about their own ministries. Some were in search of support. I talked to Godfrey about this because people don’t normally ask me for financial support. He said because of the crisis in the country due to the drought, many people are becoming desperate. They are searching for funds anywhere and anyway they can. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Monday, Wednesday and Fridays I start my morning by sharing during the hotel’s morning fellowship. </b>This is absolutely one of my most favorite things I do here at the hotel. I love that they aside these 30 minutes to start the day praising God together. When I am here they have me share a word of encouragement from God’s Word. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
This time I took what I shared on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day regarding Psalm 65:11 and split it up into three sections. Mr. & Mrs. Otile were there on the first day. After I shared the song,<b>”Beautiful Day,” by Jamie Grace, </b>Mr. Otile said, “We need to play that song at the start of everyday! Everyone was up out of their seats, singing, signing, and praising God! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
But this week had a surprising turn of events. When they came on Wednesday, it was a good size group that wanted to hear the next part of the three sections. They were excited about coming back on Friday. Thursday night, I happened to run into one of the staff who told me that they moved the normal Friday morning devotion. They would instead meet from 2:00 pm-5:00 pm for a <b>special “Thanksgiving Fellowship.” </b> She said they hoped I would come to that instead of the morning fellowship. I know on Saturdays their fellowship time is slightly different, lasting a couple of hours with prayer and worship. I assumed it was something to that effect and was thankful I had a heads up. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
When I woke up on Friday morning, I was thankful for the extra time I had in my room. I was able to study and get things ready for the day. I was having my coffee, in my PJ’s, working on the computer when my room telephone rang at 8:30 am. On the other end was one of the ladies from the restaurant. “Good morning,, Sister Eydie.” After the normal greetings she then dropped the next statement, <b>“We are waiting for you.”</b> I thought she meant breakfast which was odd because there was still an hour and a half left before they stopped serving. After replying, “Ok, I will be down soon,” came the reply, “We are waiting NOW for you.” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The confusion over why they wanted me to eat now quickly turned into the realization that they were waiting for me to come lead them in the morning fellowship! Because they wanted me to continue in the three day teaching, <b>the cancelled morning session was reinstated but no one told me! </b> You should have seen how quickly I threw myself together…actually maybe not! Good thing I already had the lesson done, but I had to quiet my frazzled heart! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
What amazed me was for something that was cancelled, it turned out to be the largest of the three days! When I finished up that morning, I said the enemy tried extremely hard to stop our time together. But each person there needed to hear something that was said that it became very personal. Later that day I did have specific staff members share what they had learned and how excited they were to apply those truths to their lives. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yGiJAXrCpXRrPF_unyy9KYgwXpgJrkKDiL5J_AL9JKO2B9N84xOKzCoSbwqLXWCiYBHSX14G7Mj8i92qmMnDc1Qztu7pdCUjMv6ydjpqh_2l4ROwXNzAJ3d3WCjJV6Ff05keYoMdJV0/s1600/DSC00824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yGiJAXrCpXRrPF_unyy9KYgwXpgJrkKDiL5J_AL9JKO2B9N84xOKzCoSbwqLXWCiYBHSX14G7Mj8i92qmMnDc1Qztu7pdCUjMv6ydjpqh_2l4ROwXNzAJ3d3WCjJV6Ff05keYoMdJV0/s320/DSC00824.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel Morning Fellowship </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONjgRRF4BWQpjCHbLS4hLy3_UlXQJzKcmEx74kUaiNb5L-n7kXvqcIaLZprgFjSSTWbaH3uz-Gj_WTd7iu2-ei-8dfEjjBC4gwqDQ8euAqAEWOXWyvzRiFfJ6k1X_bRqOYDEtDbhhmVM/s1600/DSC00832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONjgRRF4BWQpjCHbLS4hLy3_UlXQJzKcmEx74kUaiNb5L-n7kXvqcIaLZprgFjSSTWbaH3uz-Gj_WTd7iu2-ei-8dfEjjBC4gwqDQ8euAqAEWOXWyvzRiFfJ6k1X_bRqOYDEtDbhhmVM/s320/DSC00832.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Esther & Aaron</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I was again reminded by the same woman who called me at 8:30 am to <b>attend the Thanksgiving Service at invitation of Mrs. Otile.</b> I had to do some adjusting to our schedule in order to make this work. But I thought it would be important to make a quick appearance before heading to the house. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Godfrey and I first went into town to buy some clothes for all of the students in the home. <b>As one part of their Christmas gift from their sponsors, we were able to go and buy skirts, trousers and shirts! </b> It is amazing to see how grateful they are to have a new piece of clothing. We are also not talking about clothes from a department store. We do all our shopping at the local market which is more like a swap meet. This is our normal way of shopping and we were able to find something nice for each one of our twenty seven students plus the staff. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOjJwAQbc3iUSr5wXVXvHcoQr9im6zv2KqjtKSxnxPS_v5qclahNYN-U8J8rB2hpzGjV1m7plLZXqO1AICUh2WKaphwWVfx9MVgMBju7xxPhAZewYQl3VRFGF1bRxhGxTpw3JO63A9UA/s1600/DSC00857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOjJwAQbc3iUSr5wXVXvHcoQr9im6zv2KqjtKSxnxPS_v5qclahNYN-U8J8rB2hpzGjV1m7plLZXqO1AICUh2WKaphwWVfx9MVgMBju7xxPhAZewYQl3VRFGF1bRxhGxTpw3JO63A9UA/s320/DSC00857.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping at the local market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByEiGfq3BKHh0hv5WIkLlCmtwinEMeFhlHQqYd7cCjH9CekwSNK5VZWplRC-rfBpsTb28TqehseE1MQtDKGPU2Vnpfw-eBICVuhcCNUVDJGzHer8mLE1iKVLn2jjhiZCg2zkXIPDRh4c/s1600/DSC00860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByEiGfq3BKHh0hv5WIkLlCmtwinEMeFhlHQqYd7cCjH9CekwSNK5VZWplRC-rfBpsTb28TqehseE1MQtDKGPU2Vnpfw-eBICVuhcCNUVDJGzHer8mLE1iKVLn2jjhiZCg2zkXIPDRh4c/s320/DSC00860.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgseWxghcgSUEYlLkU2acxx2ZSbOroELKV2lIKCc4OKbUSKBPi1bTAbyjNlxJldRkd5L-Am7ufMGc4OSsj6YV0fj1-0KMsRiTFH3SJJZ4o22nI6zhOJhbTHXSB4UJZ2pEPAhns8F_NijXw/s1600/DSC00958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgseWxghcgSUEYlLkU2acxx2ZSbOroELKV2lIKCc4OKbUSKBPi1bTAbyjNlxJldRkd5L-Am7ufMGc4OSsj6YV0fj1-0KMsRiTFH3SJJZ4o22nI6zhOJhbTHXSB4UJZ2pEPAhns8F_NijXw/s320/DSC00958.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New clothes for the girls! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4vc-9DLzrtZN_Hn3UwGQwXtpdBxmsnTCtXZ7BbvJLpavPx0nsNcbP8dZp9LNKqYlNx7wfVOUo5C8KbXx0l5cCqaVF8QaLh6e3fUyztNvFVd3lUDTXOD52pk8V33xKakkdlQabFH8U-_4/s1600/DSC00955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4vc-9DLzrtZN_Hn3UwGQwXtpdBxmsnTCtXZ7BbvJLpavPx0nsNcbP8dZp9LNKqYlNx7wfVOUo5C8KbXx0l5cCqaVF8QaLh6e3fUyztNvFVd3lUDTXOD52pk8V33xKakkdlQabFH8U-_4/s320/DSC00955.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhui7ttQmw5kb1DKVVohpQqcq9yFCXiwDf_w2TIGxmGpmXTKUHGHOI47L56us132pxI6yf1b802hBgz3Aj9RNyYf6Tp0sRlmDiNVx40sGS_WXxrikyvM9PlCHALetAIyghnzSdCM4Hae-8/s1600/DSC00963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhui7ttQmw5kb1DKVVohpQqcq9yFCXiwDf_w2TIGxmGpmXTKUHGHOI47L56us132pxI6yf1b802hBgz3Aj9RNyYf6Tp0sRlmDiNVx40sGS_WXxrikyvM9PlCHALetAIyghnzSdCM4Hae-8/s320/DSC00963.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New clothes for the boys! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4I6Tg9nQiJE0kN4VZ387KonwUf9RLpJPzan4nz7BDL4jDtq-jjYb44rdlqp_awCEIB-zbjuRVOu4Nc1aS3bJiNZm06FWNdxtSpgL4G2-qopzwMJsOjVvTppR6iRcBvzufH3G3_7bfs8/s1600/DSC00966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4I6Tg9nQiJE0kN4VZ387KonwUf9RLpJPzan4nz7BDL4jDtq-jjYb44rdlqp_awCEIB-zbjuRVOu4Nc1aS3bJiNZm06FWNdxtSpgL4G2-qopzwMJsOjVvTppR6iRcBvzufH3G3_7bfs8/s320/DSC00966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
By time we finished it was closer to 2:30 pm. I wanted to make the quick stop into the fellowship. Godfrey questioned whether he should attend or just wait for me. That was odd because he knows that he is always welcomed to anything at the hotel. I discovered the real problem was he said he was wearing only sandals not dress shoes! I told him not to worry because I thought it was a simple prayer/worship time and we could easily greet and then leave. Still trying to work his way out of it, I said in America when invited to events we would say he is my “plus one.” He got a good laugh about that and we headed towards the meeting hall. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>What happened next was something out of a movie scene. </b> There was someone at the door to greet us. When the double doors opened it revealed a room filled with about 150-200 people! Quickly accessing the situation, I wasn’t quite sure what in the world we walked into. Apparently they had just finished a time of worship. When I looked at the front of the room there was a head table with Mr. & Mrs. Otile, Robert, Andrew, Denis and a couple of other guests who turned out to be two pastors. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I wanted to slide into a seat in the back. Silly me. Mrs. Otile from the front said, “Mama Kisakye! Please come up front. We have a seat for you.” Do you want to know what one of my first thoughts was? <b>“Oh no. Godfrey’s sandals!” </b>When I looked back he was just entering. He told me later that when he saw all the people he was going to stay outside. Took some persuasion from the people at the door to push his sandaled feet in! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Apparently what we walked into was<b> an annual event they hold at the start of each new year. </b> It is for all staff and anyone who works at the hotel to come. As a hotel they basically stop working to come and thank God for the previous year and look forward to the new year. <b>Together they honor God and start the New Year giving Him glory. </b> It was actually an amazing gathering. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Mrs. Otile introduced all of the heads of departments which helped me tremendously. I have been coming there for ten years now. Even though they have become my family it has taken years to figure out what some of them really do here! When Mr. Otile got up to share, he first recognized me as part of the hotel family. He wanted me to give a word of encouragement for the New Year </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiga7KyzXZOHFB1tC681rDqh5OC6HfvaWjJh0GXrY6xc4iP2Xk6B3OzgiAhePrNm4jJOprZYNdMRhShJGvr7FAEfHOLL5zNOfSfrfbZQr8JcbwOWz377m3Ottgfj7a4RqaHw9ES_qf0LBU/s1600/DSC00869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiga7KyzXZOHFB1tC681rDqh5OC6HfvaWjJh0GXrY6xc4iP2Xk6B3OzgiAhePrNm4jJOprZYNdMRhShJGvr7FAEfHOLL5zNOfSfrfbZQr8JcbwOWz377m3Ottgfj7a4RqaHw9ES_qf0LBU/s320/DSC00869.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV3UJAMwDrK72vI1Z1U_B6ap590rfpaVXpzuyc4zvlfHvJ9JM1y-mh1V9X-dpXIWsyDn-EJsC03g4ZGYrpIGxM_YVWPbTro833CfbbGseZuVep711CDfqOArtdglbFR8K6Vh5eZeQYpk/s1600/DSC00871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV3UJAMwDrK72vI1Z1U_B6ap590rfpaVXpzuyc4zvlfHvJ9JM1y-mh1V9X-dpXIWsyDn-EJsC03g4ZGYrpIGxM_YVWPbTro833CfbbGseZuVep711CDfqOArtdglbFR8K6Vh5eZeQYpk/s320/DSC00871.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Those moments that followed were quick and brief. I recognized Godfrey who was sitting way in the back (hiding his sandals!). Godfrey told me later if Mr. Otile would have tried to call him to the front to give a greeting, he was going to reply,<b> “Thank you so much but I am just the plus one!”</b> How quickly he learns! That gave us a good laugh later when we talked about the shock of what we had gotten ourselves into! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
But during my few moments of sharing, I realized what a privilege it was to be considered part of this wonderful family. It was an honor to have a few moments to encourage and thank all who were there. Since Mr. Otile loved the song, <b>“Beautiful Day,” </b>he was more than happy to have me finish my time signing this song.. Everyone participated by standing up and signing, singing, and clapping right along. Godfrey told me that everyone in the back of the room were filled with so much joy that they just broke out dancing! It truly was a beautiful day! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
By now I realized I was not going to be here to just make a quick appearance, especially because they had me sitting at the front table. I think Godfrey realized this before I did! He had someone bring me a note asking if he could leave me here while he went back to the house to lead the Bible study we have for the community on Friday nights. That ended up being a good call. There was still a couple of hours more of the program. Both of the pastors who were there had full messages that were very inspiring. We also had an important time of prayer of dedication for the new year that I would not have wanted to miss. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwvLy6DMf7jtx4oIl5tKa63I6axtWSmpacmqCFh7Y333dwpMDgDgc-qGBiOo_SFrYigb_3qGGR11x4SwI19GCtSTR1vGPABOnceMfV2Z5RCMMMw0OE9lXSzNU9CO6nF6O_kLUxZaWm_4/s1600/DSC00875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwvLy6DMf7jtx4oIl5tKa63I6axtWSmpacmqCFh7Y333dwpMDgDgc-qGBiOo_SFrYigb_3qGGR11x4SwI19GCtSTR1vGPABOnceMfV2Z5RCMMMw0OE9lXSzNU9CO6nF6O_kLUxZaWm_4/s320/DSC00875.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKuWA0tONZ_CXMnCONMD65N6hwXAvHkOo93qNsmchfDdLB3Bk4ikoXF5QMfZCxa2WuHkcAsEK7H-szjYWIWulil7lIk3yWb1spw7JRdiWePxFyDBLqzLnboLPbEAGPqJEdKus2m1aRudU/s1600/DSC00873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKuWA0tONZ_CXMnCONMD65N6hwXAvHkOo93qNsmchfDdLB3Bk4ikoXF5QMfZCxa2WuHkcAsEK7H-szjYWIWulil7lIk3yWb1spw7JRdiWePxFyDBLqzLnboLPbEAGPqJEdKus2m1aRudU/s320/DSC00873.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The other special honor was being there to <b>witness the retiring of a dear friend, Sam.</b> He is the brother to Mrs. Otile. He made such a wonderful speech that was also quite funny. He said he would rather go when it was late afternoon in his life rather than evening! He actually had two brothers who have passed away and that leaves no one to care for both of those homes. His retirement was to go and help his families in the area called Lire. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
We then had a feast. They had prepared a meal for everyone in attendance. But then Mr. Otile did something that <b>sets this hotel apart from all others. </b>He said that as the head of the organization wanted to serve the least of these. He went to the serving tables and then served one of the young men who I think works in the maintenance area. It really was something inspiring to witness. <b>These are very humble people who reflect Jesus in all they do. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
By time it was all said and done, I think Godfrey came back to get me at 8:00 pm! I felt like I was starting another day when he came back! We still had more to come that night! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The remaining updates will be about the discipleship time with Raining Hope, the special trip we took for their Christmas gift, and the amazing Sunday service we had on January 8th. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Still celebrating the New Year! </div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Mama Eydie Kisakye <span style="font-size: 12px;"> </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-54730395924187246212017-01-07T00:07:00.000-08:002017-01-15T09:25:46.336-08:00Chapter 23 - Update #4 - January 4, 2017<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I kept thinking all day that Sunday was January 2nd! It felt like Monday because I had gone to sleep around 5:30 am. When I woke up it only seemed like it should be the next day, right?! My body has surely been in a confused state! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Because of the overnight, we all rested on Sunday morning. Godfrey had announced that we would have church services at 5:00 pm rather than at 10:00 am. He told me later the children didn’t even wake up until 10:00 am! When I left the house there were still visitors lingering around. The children were not going to be able to sleep until everyone had left. They are such gracious, patient hosts. I don’t think they were actually able to really go to sleep until 7:00 am. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I spent the whole morning and part of the afternoon in my room in a cycle of sleeping, studying and sleeping! I didn’t go down to breakfast because I knew we were going to have our New Year’s feast which I thought was going to be at 2:00 pm. But Ugandan time put the feast closer to 3:30 pm! Guess I should have eaten breakfast! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Wow, did we ever feast!</b> Because of the generosity of those of you who have given, we were able to <b>buy all their favorite foods! </b> We had rice, beans, matoke, greens, g-nut sauce, spaghetti (or as they call it macarone), irish potatoes, cabbage, and probably other things I am forgetting. We also had our traditional bottle of soda which is reserved for special times of celebration. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Because Annet’s birthday is December 23rd, Godfrey’s is December 24th, and mine is December 27th, the feast was also a <b>birthday celebration! </b>Of course with the celebration of Jesus’ birthday on December 25th, it became one big party! We didn’t have time to get a cake so we will celebrate once again this Sunday before I go home. My former Pastor Cliff and his family would always tease me that my birthday was a month long celebration ! Nothing has changed! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZMXQ4eVgFIZT5-Ah9okKUw5q3dyhiEAzOju8zrtPy2Dlh7o8kpTt_r08bfkXtBCYIXhf38x9RS2zJKt0iSrRe04hYhpv90dflh6owQanSzCYMfaZDgBnxG0LdRT3jVhhMBQ9H8ku4YQ/s1600/DSC00198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZMXQ4eVgFIZT5-Ah9okKUw5q3dyhiEAzOju8zrtPy2Dlh7o8kpTt_r08bfkXtBCYIXhf38x9RS2zJKt0iSrRe04hYhpv90dflh6owQanSzCYMfaZDgBnxG0LdRT3jVhhMBQ9H8ku4YQ/s320/DSC00198.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jael </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5-TOxRujJVBUWBl_9W1ScirJdOU6icbIVJxGPTIhvzaAgTSVRd7nz5qGnSzMedxeD4Ktmo41726pok4UTnZitmtdcrOHAaDh2oBREIgLToLomlntX2BbofeI-kwuqaYxyoqMMafH3GI/s1600/DSC00188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5-TOxRujJVBUWBl_9W1ScirJdOU6icbIVJxGPTIhvzaAgTSVRd7nz5qGnSzMedxeD4Ktmo41726pok4UTnZitmtdcrOHAaDh2oBREIgLToLomlntX2BbofeI-kwuqaYxyoqMMafH3GI/s320/DSC00188.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to serve our feast! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXFSSo4eOazayf5NllbZrktMkFzTZH7Ssc_qHCU1E6jOQbJg_QYtlfj_t3O9QwGLbuBzsm2S-JjnLzJIpIZ1h2AO2kLZieFd2ZnubkqxvJQFKmVus4StuDZb-TJpVA-yjCXJCca1phgY/s1600/DSC00223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 12px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXFSSo4eOazayf5NllbZrktMkFzTZH7Ssc_qHCU1E6jOQbJg_QYtlfj_t3O9QwGLbuBzsm2S-JjnLzJIpIZ1h2AO2kLZieFd2ZnubkqxvJQFKmVus4StuDZb-TJpVA-yjCXJCca1phgY/s320/DSC00223.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our feast! Left (Greens & salad) Middle (Matoke, irish potatoes, Gnut sauce, spaghetti, watermelon, pineapple, rice) Right (Chicken in sauce)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOGQ8bQgx_XWbZ9eiDmt_AOW-CX8uMFQsfDXe4_Y3UMm8r3iiUowMuM7EZgrbVeDpz8YYzXe2zjGxRNdWQCzrBsvtpF5QA8QbN5eIw9sZT27YejpQOq5GxZjHn5o2SZqCPsxnoHGomZDM/s1600/DSC00202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOGQ8bQgx_XWbZ9eiDmt_AOW-CX8uMFQsfDXe4_Y3UMm8r3iiUowMuM7EZgrbVeDpz8YYzXe2zjGxRNdWQCzrBsvtpF5QA8QbN5eIw9sZT27YejpQOq5GxZjHn5o2SZqCPsxnoHGomZDM/s320/DSC00202.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jireh </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2u8O9cKiz3lPAaHeipC6Zd78xV8o1GHAXJ-dQqjkb-misa8cVm5ucUrM-JCDIvdMMBm4Bc9NtsP-oA8ibYYloK2WCcoltdsVkwcyr5Lcivy8fZc_KMB2FdbUm-wMl68OnzA71xbotgM/s1600/DSC00227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 12px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2u8O9cKiz3lPAaHeipC6Zd78xV8o1GHAXJ-dQqjkb-misa8cVm5ucUrM-JCDIvdMMBm4Bc9NtsP-oA8ibYYloK2WCcoltdsVkwcyr5Lcivy8fZc_KMB2FdbUm-wMl68OnzA71xbotgM/s320/DSC00227.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Raining Hope family enjoying their feast. Thank you to our supporters! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I suddenly realized that it was after 5:00 pm. We were the only ones at the house at that point. But faithfully the children started setting everything up. On the way to the house, there were very dark clouds that were a welcomed sight. But the concern was it raining during the service. When we had the conference in September, we had purchased tarps to create an overhang that covered the front porch and connected it to the tents. But because of the hot weather, the sun beating down on the tarps has spoiled them. Eventually we would like to do something more permanent using metal to create a nicer looking overhang. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Because we rented two more tents we were able to be under covering if it would have rained. But by time we started the services the light showers had already passed. <b>One by one, faithful believers came to worship with us for the first service of the new year. </b> We actually had a pretty large group in attendance. The fact that we spent all night in worship didn’t stop these from coming to honor Christ at the first of the year! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6b0lw98RwqjWdhhod2KQe5C4sPb0yiXbtY8Z1oaOCc2nKnWAAY5j7sbtG_5ujvAWmzHmL7pV2fRVpke37Cfr21K32BkIUoTPC8Sk9gKgt9WQagTTnrnhe0bXpyAhNL_aMdXHhU0ZJGl0/s1600/DSC00248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6b0lw98RwqjWdhhod2KQe5C4sPb0yiXbtY8Z1oaOCc2nKnWAAY5j7sbtG_5ujvAWmzHmL7pV2fRVpke37Cfr21K32BkIUoTPC8Sk9gKgt9WQagTTnrnhe0bXpyAhNL_aMdXHhU0ZJGl0/s320/DSC00248.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixC6HcHkMq1NdjNTifKeSY5KA17v6wRweZxMTY-7D0uveH8cAiqDT_5G1YZzJ2unaWK5Vh4V8ni_RGh4RpRElsWFuO8HXk-n9Np_TwFJjJjjHIN2w-AU1YyazMgCXmpjdGO-OtyqlGyqE/s1600/DSC00233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixC6HcHkMq1NdjNTifKeSY5KA17v6wRweZxMTY-7D0uveH8cAiqDT_5G1YZzJ2unaWK5Vh4V8ni_RGh4RpRElsWFuO8HXk-n9Np_TwFJjJjjHIN2w-AU1YyazMgCXmpjdGO-OtyqlGyqE/s320/DSC00233.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joanne & Irene in worship! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Fnk8-obBxk3aAKXBnHjR0Z3fBMF9w-7usQ1pBO6-s6rQslB8pJa3_ly9kkMEu1yaqerXau18D4RzYFh-LanUyUDYLRjc6XnYhOLIUUg-E_fDfv_53Kl9dlFSf-b8YrdQ_dltZ_4BS0U/s1600/DSC00243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Fnk8-obBxk3aAKXBnHjR0Z3fBMF9w-7usQ1pBO6-s6rQslB8pJa3_ly9kkMEu1yaqerXau18D4RzYFh-LanUyUDYLRjc6XnYhOLIUUg-E_fDfv_53Kl9dlFSf-b8YrdQ_dltZ_4BS0U/s320/DSC00243.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silvia leading worship</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1kn0C6nHiCgRht1uWdVxlpeQExGSYBJA5DAnydfgTPEk27iPp3oEuDfLxYLQlsSHz618Fw6PYj_UZEHflCmbs8qBAhvarbV45ecVUAYKhFxp2pO35revp5JCsa16ccLIvMsLq5oTpDc/s1600/DSC00239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1kn0C6nHiCgRht1uWdVxlpeQExGSYBJA5DAnydfgTPEk27iPp3oEuDfLxYLQlsSHz618Fw6PYj_UZEHflCmbs8qBAhvarbV45ecVUAYKhFxp2pO35revp5JCsa16ccLIvMsLq5oTpDc/s320/DSC00239.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joel playing drums</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Godfrey wanted me to share this morning giving an encouraging word for the start of the New Year. We continued to expand on P<b>salm 65:11, “You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.” </b>This verse has been a huge encouragement for all of us. It worked well with Godfrey’s message concerning our theme of <b>PRAYER & LOOKING MORE LIKE JESUS. </b> In order to resemble Jesus we need to spend time in His presence. Godfrey actually talked about how husbands and wives start looking more like one another the older they get as they spend more time together. I didn’t want to say that in America they can say the same thing about pets and their owners! They definitely would not understand that concept! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Godfrey told everyone that when we are in town, so many people think that I actually am the one that is from Uganda. Because of the way I dress and carry myself people mistake me all the time for living here. I expanded on this as the point he was trying to make was the<b> more time we spend in the presence of Jesus, the more we begin to resemble Him</b>. The reason people mistake me for being from Uganda is because of the time I spend in the presence of my Raining Hope family and the Ugandan people. I adapt to their culture, their language and their ways. This year we are calling for our Raining Hope family to spend more time in the presence of Jesus in prayer and in His Word. We want others to see Him in us this year. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I also read a devotion in our Daily Bread for January 1st. It was called, <b>“Thanks Living.” </b>It told the story of a girl who wanted to mature in her spiritual life and become more thankful. She started a <b>“Thanks Living Jar.”</b> Basically every night she would write on a small piece of paper one thing she thanked God for and dropped it in the jar. Some days the praises were easy. Other days when things were difficult she had a harder time finding one. But at the end of the year, she emptied the jar and read through all of the notes. She found herself thanking God again for everything He had done. I challenged everyone to have a “Thanks Living Basket” or use a journal to write down one thing every night. Because our theme this year is prayer, I had them go one step further and <b>pray a prayer of thanksgiving for that item as soon as they write it. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>I encourage you as well to start a “Thanks Living” journal, jar, or basket! </b> Together we can see how many reasons we have to thank God this year - “including His gifts of friends and family and His provisions for our physical, spiritual, and emotional needs. We’ll see that the goodness and love of God follows us all the days of our lives.” Psalm 23:6, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I finished with the song, <b>“Beautiful Day” by Jamie Grace. </b> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPy0ctqMwE0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPy0ctqMwE0</a>. Wow. This ended up being a perfect song to celebrate the first day of the year with! Our children know and love this song. As I signed, they were all either signing, dancing and singing along! “Oh, there’s something ‘bout the way, Your sun shines on my face. It’s a love so true I can never get enough of You. This feeling can’t be wrong. I’m about to get my worship on. Take me away - It’s a beautiful day. It’s a beautiful day!” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Right before services, I began to doze in the comfy chair in the living room. But by time we finished services I was so energized by His Word and the response of His people! The first day of 2017 set the tone of the new year! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
“You crown the year with bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.” Psalm 65:11. </div>
<div style="text-indent: 27px;">
<div style="font-family: baskerville;">
Still celebrating the New Year! </div>
<div style="font-family: baskerville;">
<span style="text-align: center;">Mama Eydie Kisakye</span></div>
<div style="font-family: baskerville;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: baskerville;">Bonus: After we were done my iPod kept playing. They broke out in dance and song and were filled with so much joy. I am working on posting the videos so stay tuned! </span></div>
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;"></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-13110601391552483022017-01-03T20:23:00.000-08:002017-01-03T21:30:15.061-08:00Chapter 23 - Update #3- January 2, 2017 <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2KPme8rhX51zkAt66aZmf_TCPPDyTcrO5ve2V0zExe0KnDPQ4Bfq_Fal4W6eaZT1UcrGZPhtlImBpjTCEorJzXhH-IyA4oaFW2t86t7DEoJVo0VzSJbdDfmD-xbX-gFc35nxu4RXULo/s1600/DSC00310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2KPme8rhX51zkAt66aZmf_TCPPDyTcrO5ve2V0zExe0KnDPQ4Bfq_Fal4W6eaZT1UcrGZPhtlImBpjTCEorJzXhH-IyA4oaFW2t86t7DEoJVo0VzSJbdDfmD-xbX-gFc35nxu4RXULo/s320/DSC00310.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New addition to hotel </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0IIrS-TvyXy7UsMHsE5PwZWhmGvHhcM7UO1cFa5dNJ1aCLcvEK912AHl-pW-grU3chyD91gQTxwEBSW5WUGHMlWUJP6bciCSYABIdUrSJHsdxEJ7mfucTZEthvS3iwuRZVc7EVPe4uE/s1600/DSC00317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0IIrS-TvyXy7UsMHsE5PwZWhmGvHhcM7UO1cFa5dNJ1aCLcvEK912AHl-pW-grU3chyD91gQTxwEBSW5WUGHMlWUJP6bciCSYABIdUrSJHsdxEJ7mfucTZEthvS3iwuRZVc7EVPe4uE/s320/DSC00317.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New addition to hotel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I am happily sitting at the restaurant at the hotel catching up on updates. There were dark clouds forming in the sky. The thunder was roaring deep in the distance. The wind started blowing slightly through the restaurant which is an open air patio. Lydia, one of the servers who takes such great care of me asked, “Are you not cold?” This was perfect weather for me but a little too cold for them! Then all of a sudden, I heard the sound of drops of rain on the metal roofing. I was so excited that God was answering our prayers of rain for the nation. But He answered in a big way! All of a sudden the wind began to rush through the patio so strong that the tablecloths were flying off the tables. The slow drops of rain began to quickly increase. Combined with the strong movement of wind, before I knew it Lydia and another server rushed to help me move to the newer addition of the patio where they can close the windows. It started happening so fast that it was an exciting state of emergency! We were all laughing and filled with joy to the HUGE answer to prayer! It is just now starting to let up. I looked over at the area of the restaurant where I was sitting and it is completely covered in water. One of the workers just came over with a squeegee mop to start to push the excess water over the side. What a beautiful 30 minutes we just experienced being showered with blessings from above! </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_4p-Sta2FOxpD7h40q5uS10lM2dJaPCg67aZ3gGS_Fe5hjVzweV-mPb1s2v1vVZg-vml7sAqVRFW9rW6kGnRhln9azSxtQIjOMvjUdIFY9kdBqapZcZqm8cu9G4A4eScNhnJmRbYjzk/s1600/DSC00348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_4p-Sta2FOxpD7h40q5uS10lM2dJaPCg67aZ3gGS_Fe5hjVzweV-mPb1s2v1vVZg-vml7sAqVRFW9rW6kGnRhln9azSxtQIjOMvjUdIFY9kdBqapZcZqm8cu9G4A4eScNhnJmRbYjzk/s320/DSC00348.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where I was sitting ! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
This morning as I was in the restaurant, one of my friends here at the hotel, Willie, came to to share a New Year’s greeting. Everyone I talk to has said how it has been TOO HOT and very dry for months. <b>He pointed out the land across the Nile River. As I looked, I saw the reality of the drought. </b> The hills that are normally lush green have turned brown.” I am used to that in California but have never seen that here in Jinja. All of the maize crops have dried up due to the lack of rain. It is one thing for me to hear about the drought and famine. It is completely another story for me to experience for myself how it is affecting this nation. There was a little humor in all of this. One of the workers here said, “It has been TOO HOT! That is why our African skin is so dark!” It caught me off guard and we both got a good laugh!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDedMJJyJHMcT-TkDjRKxhG71vCUVy7C5oLeroTA9JD-4VWHop1QNGY48Vhlh0xXmBktquyChvQmcq_2-tiJ09ND_OfuZUamj5bJ2hhrtaVi0mnMHDz-YIWo4ndOTBcYhUpF3bHuzJLHc/s1600/DSC00328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; font-family: Times; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDedMJJyJHMcT-TkDjRKxhG71vCUVy7C5oLeroTA9JD-4VWHop1QNGY48Vhlh0xXmBktquyChvQmcq_2-tiJ09ND_OfuZUamj5bJ2hhrtaVi0mnMHDz-YIWo4ndOTBcYhUpF3bHuzJLHc/s320/DSC00328.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maize crops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZLxV5FUdoy_DJ1L5VhR9eUZd3x0PpmLt1ilApCISpWStMOJC90EPdnIfV1xEM4OxYLi0QKTSBO5QOuszL5RvZ2h7xmJGBha_b1u00oEvIfTy_bWLbikUKVFeL8e8IleaeocJ3CvPDvc/s1600/DSC00301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZLxV5FUdoy_DJ1L5VhR9eUZd3x0PpmLt1ilApCISpWStMOJC90EPdnIfV1xEM4OxYLi0QKTSBO5QOuszL5RvZ2h7xmJGBha_b1u00oEvIfTy_bWLbikUKVFeL8e8IleaeocJ3CvPDvc/s320/DSC00301.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New construction of second bridge over Nile River. Expected to be complete in 2018 (maybe!) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>I also saw how it is directly affecting us at the home. </b> Godfrey and I spent part of Saturday in town shopping for food. We were buying supplies for the month as well as for our New Year’s Day/Christmas/Birthday feast! Because we had a limited amount of money come in before I left, I had to buy our food in stages. I was shocked to find that <b>every item that we bought had increased in price from our budget. </b> He said it has been happening steadily as the drought has gotten worse. The sugar was the biggest surprise which had <b>DOUBLED in price.</b> Godfrey said in the hardest hit areas the sugar is tripling in price. Continue to be in prayer for the nation as this really is a widespread crisis.<br />
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMKihRz53_QLl-b63GjThceQYTXDAzIKXa8f0oFoF1FWovocXdxfB0MzmvQioyFQVC__q2UrjWoELWtYCNNt-On4oeSiYD2awIqq9BbROBhS344rlv7hvjaYycKJW39LVK8l_-S9biooU/s1600/DSC09844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMKihRz53_QLl-b63GjThceQYTXDAzIKXa8f0oFoF1FWovocXdxfB0MzmvQioyFQVC__q2UrjWoELWtYCNNt-On4oeSiYD2awIqq9BbROBhS344rlv7hvjaYycKJW39LVK8l_-S9biooU/s320/DSC09844.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping for supplies at the market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UCDRbegIy2TuIdfnuFy1LILPQV9_kSgm0eZXSl8NkzUUnJw7Y2EthXIJlZoL7sv0t-1WGC9DCLJLrXUITlqMowTIPsBvnnFgVCZgPsxh6m3mBWAB33SVxOvAekG0BQqqO7AmnAcQUSI/s1600/DSC09848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UCDRbegIy2TuIdfnuFy1LILPQV9_kSgm0eZXSl8NkzUUnJw7Y2EthXIJlZoL7sv0t-1WGC9DCLJLrXUITlqMowTIPsBvnnFgVCZgPsxh6m3mBWAB33SVxOvAekG0BQqqO7AmnAcQUSI/s320/DSC09848.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Market shopping for food<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjwPtNzYEy-9k_3GOmmD5xB6-82xjW6QfaSItM1RGD66WAOxNgjJRfrOD6WVO4kvvXar6yvjIj-QelObFNqtcNYlvxF1Wvn61fAUqvXryd4T22ashwF_eqEk9Bd5ap60AX_o2wuXGE3g/s1600/DSC09856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjwPtNzYEy-9k_3GOmmD5xB6-82xjW6QfaSItM1RGD66WAOxNgjJRfrOD6WVO4kvvXar6yvjIj-QelObFNqtcNYlvxF1Wvn61fAUqvXryd4T22ashwF_eqEk9Bd5ap60AX_o2wuXGE3g/s320/DSC09856.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Favorite Bananas </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdFU_OxGPEGAEIzZWqhuS5cmIzfjwjMOAz5kuMbK0Amhs5uvYQlHIBdmN421gIzM8b6ibmvZrpY1eZooQkvgOTptA3RUfvgdbzt9m3qP6lt-cF9IcmUu4-SsA7xsZTGSMkd9zW9oB_Ho/s1600/DSC09858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdFU_OxGPEGAEIzZWqhuS5cmIzfjwjMOAz5kuMbK0Amhs5uvYQlHIBdmN421gIzM8b6ibmvZrpY1eZooQkvgOTptA3RUfvgdbzt9m3qP6lt-cF9IcmUu4-SsA7xsZTGSMkd9zW9oB_Ho/s320/DSC09858.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZZ_EzJQ_tbcLEFmYspfaGxseOqhlpElM81ZI__XP3bhiwxxvtC6CsFf_UZIxgSdb24_zCthmQL5DK56WGf4tw3qYyWHyDs5wTs4-JLNmv8KZBRbB27nmQL8l4dRSPBb_eFu_NSgLxns/s1600/DSC09875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZZ_EzJQ_tbcLEFmYspfaGxseOqhlpElM81ZI__XP3bhiwxxvtC6CsFf_UZIxgSdb24_zCthmQL5DK56WGf4tw3qYyWHyDs5wTs4-JLNmv8KZBRbB27nmQL8l4dRSPBb_eFu_NSgLxns/s320/DSC09875.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">One of our vendors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
When Godfrey picked me up on Saturday, he immediately said, “I have a testimony!” He seemed to be very excited. He explained when he left for the airport to pick me up, he was concerned because the tires on the van are starting to get worn down. He took the van in to be serviced before leaving on the long drive. His concern was warranted and was cautioned to drive carefully. As we drove home he told me about the tires but wasn’t concerned there would be any problems. He just wanted to explain why he was driving a little slower! The next morning when he woke up he was prompted to go and check the tires. <b>One of the tires was completely FLAT! </b> He praised God that we made it all the way home without blowing the tire. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
When Godfrey took the van to the shop, the man looked at it and was shocked. He said, <b>“How far did you come on this tire?” </b> His reply was, “Entebbe Airport.” The man said, “Wow! No wonder you are a pastor!” He was meaning that the tire was so bad that it was a miracle we made it back. We are now using the spare tire and we are able to get around town. The house is only five minutes away from the hotel. Thankfully, all we are doing is basically from the house to the hotel. Please keep us in prayer as it is time for us to replace the tires. The cost is roughly $560 for four tires and balancing. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Now that the van was loaded down with food, he was worried it was putting too much pressure on the tires. So he left me in town to visit my friends while he made a run home to drop off the food. I surprised all of my friends with a New Year’s greeting as they thought I was coming mid January! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Godfrey then came back to bring me to the hotel while he went to get things ready for our overnight New Year’s Eve program. It was good because it gave me time to get my things together. <b>He wanted me to share the New Year’s Eve message to reflect on all that God has done this past year. He then would share the first message of the New Year after midnight. </b>By time he actually picked me up it was closer to 9:30 pm (normal Ugandan time!) When we drove in the compound there were only a few people who had arrived which was normal. It was exciting to watch people come one by one and fill up our tents. Godfrey actually had to rent TWO more tents to accommodate the excess he knew would come. It was like the quote from the movie, “Field of Dreams.” “If you build it they will come!” At the height of the program, Godfrey estimated that we had 150-180 people! He had invited another pastor and their church to join us that evening. They actually had come from <b>Wairasa </b>which is about a 15 minute drive away. It was a blessing to share the evening with them. We had many others come from the neighborhood as well. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8QuhFtq0LasH3CHl9zaa3wPS7ENQuIVwxOz3LsA0mGoKTcgPnVtOzaDkHUr4mG4xp2Qo3sSNMyBTq_zGtg6y38L3EzNvEXuHnPctNeotN6iOkQITV2MI9VspFYfkY89iZXvxDpkBdfM/s1600/DSC09951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8QuhFtq0LasH3CHl9zaa3wPS7ENQuIVwxOz3LsA0mGoKTcgPnVtOzaDkHUr4mG4xp2Qo3sSNMyBTq_zGtg6y38L3EzNvEXuHnPctNeotN6iOkQITV2MI9VspFYfkY89iZXvxDpkBdfM/s320/DSC09951.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglart_6c8wmeRhywSC_qmRgBK0j-fP8xkf4FK_2YBk_l61C89iNKUrb6anjGYd6XaoBZN_xFCrJM0QsQF6CRgpS9vzCNkuHRLxgY2J78WXzmarsNJCXCfOpig5dy3an8r7Lzx4zhiTUCg/s1600/DSC09922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglart_6c8wmeRhywSC_qmRgBK0j-fP8xkf4FK_2YBk_l61C89iNKUrb6anjGYd6XaoBZN_xFCrJM0QsQF6CRgpS9vzCNkuHRLxgY2J78WXzmarsNJCXCfOpig5dy3an8r7Lzx4zhiTUCg/s320/DSC09922.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: start;">The children ministered in song and dance for the first part of the program. They recently bought new uniforms because they had already outgrown the ones we had made for them. They looked extremely “smart” which is a cultural saying for looking good. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IPuHB0gjcyVkv9wTYR5R5AGAYIUPS4hw-P86MS9uuHJ9DCXb3zbBfpmQ83bDwc5JlYGz_UF2nwIYHmVVA0b7B0JW_-LrOAiUwPN_BnQccbMjPwoWU_NZgNANnh_LbZQpZa5GQNgBMiA/s1600/DSC09905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IPuHB0gjcyVkv9wTYR5R5AGAYIUPS4hw-P86MS9uuHJ9DCXb3zbBfpmQ83bDwc5JlYGz_UF2nwIYHmVVA0b7B0JW_-LrOAiUwPN_BnQccbMjPwoWU_NZgNANnh_LbZQpZa5GQNgBMiA/s320/DSC09905.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3WOqv5ieakAFJXsPxBFKtFSXyW1LnvZEUIFBG6u0Vp2ojksBq_T-C5JqdimA1o5w9Ch2DlC-3gJCt4-BEKXAZ-Lk2BhQYYy-bEGxt2ZZXPmdBy2zS9BIl4OwonWXIKwysnzDjIqR7CU/s1600/DSC09980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3WOqv5ieakAFJXsPxBFKtFSXyW1LnvZEUIFBG6u0Vp2ojksBq_T-C5JqdimA1o5w9Ch2DlC-3gJCt4-BEKXAZ-Lk2BhQYYy-bEGxt2ZZXPmdBy2zS9BIl4OwonWXIKwysnzDjIqR7CU/s320/DSC09980.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOxQn_dPGN2DjrWl48djJlNvzT2lEGYXcGAgltBile8jt4yfKVDE6e3mEo3I5xteI9nrfXRuKIDHV99BOzVwfvrwvGXuJ2P2ukFIbrbNbTnniAem8KTQ8Ch8-4MfiBvimIG4fQ3mGN9s/s1600/DSC09979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOxQn_dPGN2DjrWl48djJlNvzT2lEGYXcGAgltBile8jt4yfKVDE6e3mEo3I5xteI9nrfXRuKIDHV99BOzVwfvrwvGXuJ2P2ukFIbrbNbTnniAem8KTQ8Ch8-4MfiBvimIG4fQ3mGN9s/s320/DSC09979.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The importance of all that happens before the clock strikes midnight is to thank God for all He has done in that year. When I got up to share, we spent some time <b>reflecting on 2016 and all that God did. </b> Many said they are thankful they are alive and made it to the new year. Ronald especially was thankful that he is alive after being hit by a taxi van. <b>By the way, Ronald is now free of the cast and the walking sticks! </b>He went to the doctor yesterday and they finally have removed the bandages! Praise the Lord! Hillary reminded us that he was thankful for the surgery he had on his foot this past year that removed a piece of glass. We praised God for the provisions of the house, the tents, the sound equipment, the septic tank and more. But most of what they were thankful for were not material things. Most had to do with life itself and growing deeper in their walk with the Lord. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: 'Baskerville SemiBold'; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: "baskerville";"> <b> We focused on Psalm 65:11, “You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.”</b> I taught the sign language to this verse which helped them to memorize it! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>One of the truths from his verse was that HE is the One who crowns us with a bountiful harvest. </b>We talked about how a crown encircles your head when it is placed. We focused on how this year each person can be surrounded by God’s bountiful goodness. But we need to walk in His paths throughout the year to experience the abundance. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I finished by signing the song, <b>“All Yours” by Ryan Stevenson. </b> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZboBd2POBs">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZboBd2POBs</a> . It was a call for us to give all of ourselves to Him in 2017. Some of the words are this, “I’ve never been so thankful that I’m not defined by my human side. I’ve found my identity in the one who holds my destiny ‘cause You’ve been laying a foundation, of truth and grace. I am all yours. I am all, all Yours. The only way I’m free is to give You everything. I am all, all yours.” <b>If you watch the YouTube video you can hear the song in its entirety. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>When I finished we had about 30 minutes to wait for the new year to arrive. </b>It is one of my favorite things to be a part of on New Year’s Eve! The anticipation just builds up. The excitement is hard to contain. The worship team leads in praise & worship. Godfrey is speaking and updating us on the time we have left in 2016. As it came down to the last two minutes you could sense what was about to happen was going to be explosive! He was using his phone to count down to midnight. <b>As the last “three, two, one” came, the place ERUPTED in praise, dance, worship, cheering, and all around just plain excitement! </b> There was no ball drop or fireworks but celebrating Ugandan style has special meaning. There is something that happens in Uganda when you say goodbye to the old year. Every tear that was shed, every hard path taken are all left behind as we enter in the new year. Every blessing from above, every good thing is appreciated in great thanksgiving knowing there is more in store. This lasts for quite some time. There are people in the tent, outside the tent in the dark and on the platform leading. At one point as I was taking photos, one of the kids grabbed my arm to go round and round as we were celebrating to a specific song. It wasn’t the best move on my part with my recent bout with vertigo! It took a minute to realize that I can’t do that again! I got caught up in the excitement but was thankful that soon after that we stopped to pray! <b> </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Godfrey preached the first message of the New Year, based on the theme for Raining Hope this year - PRAYER. He taught from Luke 11 on the teaching of the disciples asking Jesus to teach them how to pray. It was a powerful sermon. He emphasized the need to <b>LOOK MORE LIKE HIM in all we do. </b>He emphasized the more we spend time in His presence, the more we will begin to look like Him & lead a victorious life. I will share more about this in tomorrow’s update! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Godfrey had me come back up and share one more song. I read the entry from the new devotional by <b>Sarah Young, “Jesus Always.”</b> January 1 starts by saying, “Do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing.” That is based on<b> Isaiah 43:16, 18-19,</b> “I am the Lord, who opened a way through the waters, making a dry path through the sea. ‘But forget all that - it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” This led to my signing the song, <b>“Be One” by Natalie Grant. </b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq-6pXBHCZM">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq-6pXBHCZM</a> “It’s time to get our hands dirty. Be love there’s a whole lot of hurting. Calling all hearts - calling all hands - calling all feet to take a stand. Why sit around and wait for a miracle to come when we can be one - when we can be one.” <b>It was a call for our children to take a stand this year and be the change, be the hope, the light in the dark! </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
We only had a couple of hours left. The time just seemed to fly by. There was so much joy that filled the air. Godfrey had three people share testimony whose lives have been changed since they have began worshipping at Raining Hope. It was inspiring to hear how God has changed their lives. During one of the choir presentation times, Sylvia led the team in singing “Amazing Grace.” But I was surprised at the version as I had not heard it that way before. Turns out, they had written their own version! It was beautiful! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>We ended the time with offering chai tea and chapati to everyone. </b> This is due to the generosity of all of you who have given to Raining Hope and provided for our needs. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Zg1rl3g0_sL5xVZtqG-tbvy-toyWWMQOMgnzZldxVXY-90SNg6ocJ9jshro6z26c1OQV9Ag4ASEkGUkrdaVisp5VxFjgQlfoXyTGyz6tuAi4DtPQpFaSt8bW7akNuzthOPcar1IjHms/s1600/DSC00001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Zg1rl3g0_sL5xVZtqG-tbvy-toyWWMQOMgnzZldxVXY-90SNg6ocJ9jshro6z26c1OQV9Ag4ASEkGUkrdaVisp5VxFjgQlfoXyTGyz6tuAi4DtPQpFaSt8bW7akNuzthOPcar1IjHms/s320/DSC00001.jpg" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnf1p1pZK9sNFjm7BlTCZxy9JT76tu-18kfYSTcsh-5uB0QDqs7K8xhOXy9irpBgQ9qwT3jzw3KWNbgoyXeskmpnSc-gP8w6VpgyQKcgybnvdX8-qithJ3mKqEjsDYTnvt-kTqclsAmU/s1600/DSC09988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnf1p1pZK9sNFjm7BlTCZxy9JT76tu-18kfYSTcsh-5uB0QDqs7K8xhOXy9irpBgQ9qwT3jzw3KWNbgoyXeskmpnSc-gP8w6VpgyQKcgybnvdX8-qithJ3mKqEjsDYTnvt-kTqclsAmU/s320/DSC09988.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
As things began to wind down, our children were still wide awake and I believe could have gone for hours more! By time Godfrey took me back to the hotel, it was 5:00 am. I was praising God I made it the whole night! As I went to the room, and got ready to sleep for a few hours, a rooster began to crow! It was a reminder that my body was a little confused as to what I was doing to it! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
It meant more than I understood for me to come and start the new year off with the Raining Hope family. Thanks to all of you for your support of my being here. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Tomorrow I will share more about what God did on the first day of the New Year! <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Happy New Year! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Mama Eydie Kisakye </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXrZPhaNXksYFnhk38ObyPidO_X9G2AJuzKwZwY8xiwkv2j-uiTCO25oUGB6ynEqvXoizxxxKbK3WThhNxvN1Ig2-Gvp32j31nnZKbfhKSc2nypVkMdNq6pTFPI5Ai34eICl-iStfNEQY/s1600/DSC00030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXrZPhaNXksYFnhk38ObyPidO_X9G2AJuzKwZwY8xiwkv2j-uiTCO25oUGB6ynEqvXoizxxxKbK3WThhNxvN1Ig2-Gvp32j31nnZKbfhKSc2nypVkMdNq6pTFPI5Ai34eICl-iStfNEQY/s320/DSC00030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6dyBG5VB_2Q3a2qEr4c45_3OGUfTCdUS-2DOUZntLFqpyZ3DRPtLKEOHw5oJriFr_RLV_NluzF-Q5czVOisZ0lkwqhMARzpT3lj3xzyxQi5OkDZrmZCleYww3o3-DqsyP9JoK5hfnGc/s1600/DSC00047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6dyBG5VB_2Q3a2qEr4c45_3OGUfTCdUS-2DOUZntLFqpyZ3DRPtLKEOHw5oJriFr_RLV_NluzF-Q5czVOisZ0lkwqhMARzpT3lj3xzyxQi5OkDZrmZCleYww3o3-DqsyP9JoK5hfnGc/s320/DSC00047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhkJA6ZD9SZk-Ywlejvr4Tgk7PaQSr-1pUYiT2wKT4rycuZsDLNsaJ-FYy6_49ptyJPG8GFaS0Gq9805Xt6tTMNMLrgpGQiVVXAMXNSkfWoWWLuZW5PHux5wO-N4KL4ttcHjhRBDXQoU/s1600/DSC00040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhkJA6ZD9SZk-Ywlejvr4Tgk7PaQSr-1pUYiT2wKT4rycuZsDLNsaJ-FYy6_49ptyJPG8GFaS0Gq9805Xt6tTMNMLrgpGQiVVXAMXNSkfWoWWLuZW5PHux5wO-N4KL4ttcHjhRBDXQoU/s320/DSC00040.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSC8ahQTpQiWUgpHj0WsxUFrVjNlzRX9jM6xyj1BAF1uZDTMehMqkDFlNKiLDpCpmGZTLZ6OmIpQSc4JgnAf7eOKb5cue-m9_6FoHBEzQSDBRw0D1hZQH2SnkT792Gx_fmJfyBpQrmpw/s1600/DSC00050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSC8ahQTpQiWUgpHj0WsxUFrVjNlzRX9jM6xyj1BAF1uZDTMehMqkDFlNKiLDpCpmGZTLZ6OmIpQSc4JgnAf7eOKb5cue-m9_6FoHBEzQSDBRw0D1hZQH2SnkT792Gx_fmJfyBpQrmpw/s320/DSC00050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjteqLhF-j3SBZ7XBe-d4rplF907wPF1_cuMYyLu8H-OCx-fkM8Epqy-o8mGr6j3Yrz_idi6mHLWaW0Z3XydeAYjf0pCv7IFbIxS1KAy7zQBmrmydYB5FtvQZ7Y_Utv2pMZlVNBuUcGwBM/s1600/DSC00036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjteqLhF-j3SBZ7XBe-d4rplF907wPF1_cuMYyLu8H-OCx-fkM8Epqy-o8mGr6j3Yrz_idi6mHLWaW0Z3XydeAYjf0pCv7IFbIxS1KAy7zQBmrmydYB5FtvQZ7Y_Utv2pMZlVNBuUcGwBM/s320/DSC00036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QbQ91CNdrzk-AOz0sWbMp0u1Z6AeIeBXS-Jl4M8b-JLlMXyOwwBNOCQSe-Z4-_PCEHvTOENXyrM_mfo7-V8gMKkLU7YqG9PYqsNUgjSh3cJbSpWL9BtxPN56kkmVxEwlXk4z78ji7zQ/s1600/DSC00054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QbQ91CNdrzk-AOz0sWbMp0u1Z6AeIeBXS-Jl4M8b-JLlMXyOwwBNOCQSe-Z4-_PCEHvTOENXyrM_mfo7-V8gMKkLU7YqG9PYqsNUgjSh3cJbSpWL9BtxPN56kkmVxEwlXk4z78ji7zQ/s320/DSC00054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4PePdO3x13TxdRZIKoMNXnZajRysgn-47_npStf3P1jr5PMuPPV9NYeJI39B_4zOTMiIQAhHsov17Z_gchx9zZxGHGVbYAySb38RLVobj1yuAGKmVZx3XQXkKKzCbjnaIsyukZd6iPw/s1600/DSC00150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4PePdO3x13TxdRZIKoMNXnZajRysgn-47_npStf3P1jr5PMuPPV9NYeJI39B_4zOTMiIQAhHsov17Z_gchx9zZxGHGVbYAySb38RLVobj1yuAGKmVZx3XQXkKKzCbjnaIsyukZd6iPw/s320/DSC00150.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
</div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-59847237469901186752017-01-02T02:26:00.003-08:002017-01-02T02:27:53.966-08:00Chapter 23 - Update #2 - January 1, 2017<br />
Happy New Year! It is January 1, 2017 in Uganda! I think my body is not quite sure what I am doing to it! I adjust well to any type of “jet lag” because I was taught long ago to start functioning in the time zone you are going to instead of looking at the time zone I left. Yet, this time I was also dealing with an overnight New Year’s Eve service that would keep me awake from 9:00 pm - 5:00 am! <br />
<br />
Adding to this dilemma was my journey from LAX to Uganda turned out to be a little longer than expected. We were about 30-45 minutes late departing. Then when we approached Dubai, the weather did not permit us to land immediately. We were kept circling in the air an additional 30-45 minutes. We landed in very thick fog and I momentarily forgot I was in Dubai not London! The good news was it cut down my layover at the airport to only six hours! Emirates has a policy that they provide a free hotel room only if your flight is over eight hours. Oddly enough, my layover was scheduled for 7 hours 55 minutes! Saved a hotel room for them but left me without a place to lay my head. But because of the delay, I had two less hours to have to wander! The time passed quickly but I didn’t get any sleep. I am just thankful I didn’t do any sleep walking!<br />
<br />
I was suppose to be in seat 34A on my flight from Dubai to Entebbe. However, once I got to my row, a nice Ugandan couple were already in place and the woman seemed to enjoy sitting next to the window. I took the seat 34C and was glad to be in the aisle. The gentleman’s name was David, a retired teacher from Kampala. We had great conversations! He wanted to know about my journey and about Raining Hope. They were a very bright spot on the last leg of my journey. They were very encouraging and confirmed the good work that we are doing for the children. As we left the baggage claim area, I was able to meet some of this other family members who were also on the same flight but scattered throughout the plane. He was also able to meet Godfrey which truly blessed me. <br />
<br />
Whenever we start our initial descent into Entebbe, my heart always starts to quicken and I begin getting so excited. As soon as the wheels touch down on the tarmac, I become very emotional and being to tear up. There is something about the moment that I enter back onto Ugandan soil. <br />
The airport is going under major renovations and improvements. Each time I come, there is something that is new and improved. But this time it caused some disorganization in the flow of the health check area (checking for yellow fever health cards) and passport control. I have an uncanny way of picking the wrong line and today was no different! My line seemed to be the only one that was not moving! After a long wait, and ALL the other lines moving along just fine, the agent brought some of us over to the “Ugandans Only” line which only seemed appropriate for me! <br />
Even retrieving the luggage was an issue. Because two large flights arrived at the same time, there were no luggage carts available which has never happened before! We had to wait until more were brought in. Have you ever had that feeling inside when you just want to get to where you want to go but it is beyond your control?! It was as if I was in my own movie and everything was moving in slow motion. All I wanted to do was say at the top of my lungs, “I just want to get outside to where Godfrey is waiting!” <br />
<br />
I finally was able to exit the baggage claim area. I am always looking in the crowd at the sea of faces. Some are hotel transportation people holding signs with passenger’s names. Some are friends and family looking for their loved ones. Then it is as if the sea parts and Godfrey’s face emerges from the crowd SMILING the biggest smile imaginable! It is this moment that I feel so welcomed back to this place I call my Ugandan home! <br />
<br />
I usually pack snacks in my bag to eat on the long drive back to Jinja. This way we don’t have to stop until chicken on a stick! Godfrey has come to depend on those snacks! This time I brought some of my homemade banana bread and cookies I made for Christmas. He has come to love the banana cake at the hotel so I thought he would enjoy trying my banana bread. You would have thought that I won the “Master Chef” contest! Godfrey also said, “I have a surprise too!” He brought my favorite “Stoney” soda which is basically a very strong ginger ale. He had it waiting in the van for our drive home. <br />
<br />
We made the stop for chicken on a stick and roasted bananas. This is a couple of hours into the drive. That is why the banana bread and cookies come in handy! It always makes things official when we make this traditional stop! By time we arrived at the hotel it was close to 7:30 pm. Because of traffic through Kampala it took close to five hours to get to Jinja! Godfrey wanted to drop me off at the hotel to unload the luggage. He first went to the house while I was unpacking and them came back to get me. <br />
<br />
It was a welcomed sight to see Christmas lights up at the hotel! By arriving before the New year, I was still able to enjoy the Christmas tree in the lobby! Normally, by January 1st or 2nd all evidence of Christmas decorations have already gone back into storage for another year! <br />
<br />
When we drove back to the house, we waited outside the gate for at least five minutes! I could hear giggling and movement on the other side of the gate and knew they were up to something. Once the gate was opened, it was a picture I will not soon forget! They had just finished Friday night Bible study for the community. So the sound equipment was still set up. Some were playing instruments while the rest were all lined up singing, smiling, waving & jumping! They were welcoming me with the song, “How Great is Our God!” The first hugs when I exit the van are always the best! You can’t help but feel the love of God when you are embraced by our Raining Hope family! <br />
<br />
This was overwhelming in itself but I found they had more planned! We started to head inside the house, but Tabitha & Florence were assigned to keep me back. It took a few minutes, but I watched as the children formed two lines for me to pass through in order to enter into the house. Once inside they erupted in praise and dance! They had decorated the walls with “Happy New Year,” and “Welcome Mom Kisakye!” It was such a beautiful sight. Each time I come, they welcome me in a different way. But it is always based on LOVE and HIS JOY that just fills their hearts. <br />
<br />
We only spent a short time together before I headed back to the hotel for the night. We spent time thanking the Lord that we could be together to thank Him for the past year and looking forward to the new year. I will talk more about this in the upcoming updates. The time was short but very sweet that first night. When I got back to the hotel, the traveling of the first day caught up with me. I entered the room, laid down on the bed for a moment to thank God, and next thing I knew it was morning! <br />
<br />
New Year’s Eve and New Years Day were glorious! That is the story that awaits you in the next update! <br />
Happy New Year!<br />
Mama Eydie Kisakye<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNsqrP_xFQZp60F-eHgnABl-QYp2B6JBqzWRWsywZL3d8t8MmqmPyB6pNFCYAXihfmyjfBY3AfIsvPkj-09uj91Qd8PsiVJkptaTOAJzJvdZHQWzheaN_FubQOZ9EIwHcmL6TijNI7A4/s1600/DSC09794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNsqrP_xFQZp60F-eHgnABl-QYp2B6JBqzWRWsywZL3d8t8MmqmPyB6pNFCYAXihfmyjfBY3AfIsvPkj-09uj91Qd8PsiVJkptaTOAJzJvdZHQWzheaN_FubQOZ9EIwHcmL6TijNI7A4/s320/DSC09794.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banana Bread!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnDwFnBT3Xtg0Sq0YTr-ivDEHJUzbUFVcvK2Cr_eXDUiLR0Ckc1gIjc8tqA6Fs1VExN4_bubS9XIY-Tbdaw9rBGAKzxmhMMGvieqB8bllUy2UKuRf_mNZfgiZzkB0t-VED1-XuX-v_88/s1600/DSC09800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnDwFnBT3Xtg0Sq0YTr-ivDEHJUzbUFVcvK2Cr_eXDUiLR0Ckc1gIjc8tqA6Fs1VExN4_bubS9XIY-Tbdaw9rBGAKzxmhMMGvieqB8bllUy2UKuRf_mNZfgiZzkB0t-VED1-XuX-v_88/s320/DSC09800.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken on a Stick! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCXGf3lDaIioyHNoVe6YAwxep43KcN3zN2ILfz0l2_F-uYWp2Obm_yKQtjYnbnqgmFhd5XkkIKLKmlqwCTAfRWO2fwN9MNvWgEFKvmVOHD8HNOaBegV2zlyHWROz60dq4irxDkonc3Ts/s1600/DSC09805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCXGf3lDaIioyHNoVe6YAwxep43KcN3zN2ILfz0l2_F-uYWp2Obm_yKQtjYnbnqgmFhd5XkkIKLKmlqwCTAfRWO2fwN9MNvWgEFKvmVOHD8HNOaBegV2zlyHWROz60dq4irxDkonc3Ts/s320/DSC09805.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stopping for Chicken on a Stick</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBRRBkLWXLxgR4OwbyS2cMKpOIqTT8ar6mZvUYy7uxjntRHepxh0vStUmyf1ONRhsfwfM7mdT5Lsl03BKV0JuSB5NKrZMR_ri6xpLmI3tWKWkbi7i1qL6V33jZTG2ifoEwB_6h78I3ek/s1600/DSC09820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBRRBkLWXLxgR4OwbyS2cMKpOIqTT8ar6mZvUYy7uxjntRHepxh0vStUmyf1ONRhsfwfM7mdT5Lsl03BKV0JuSB5NKrZMR_ri6xpLmI3tWKWkbi7i1qL6V33jZTG2ifoEwB_6h78I3ek/s320/DSC09820.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome home sign! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFz_fADasXKVz_-2oB033r7wCi3SObWDyMGlegYXOTGYmyyyEJHdDu1JsIuV2ALyMMr53UgV2KHj81YvM_9P0XmnrlmUrLbhv-ivk9NIr33f0nOfFCJ2X2M09MzgcgCrZ8ACiB5mxmlg/s1600/DSC09825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFz_fADasXKVz_-2oB033r7wCi3SObWDyMGlegYXOTGYmyyyEJHdDu1JsIuV2ALyMMr53UgV2KHj81YvM_9P0XmnrlmUrLbhv-ivk9NIr33f0nOfFCJ2X2M09MzgcgCrZ8ACiB5mxmlg/s320/DSC09825.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy New Year From Raining Hope! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG58YMVdX0sKabmzLyjHdTjujuOI3FVGwJnITEaNeytYpFUS7g3VDp3QPn807RJDt8nHy5tY5i4m3yglSvrPFJ2xzqWXLSClO01weE0-HPMY4tgEcP6pbnBYYQ_uRWAPSLPm0I1f7nJdg/s1600/DSC09826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG58YMVdX0sKabmzLyjHdTjujuOI3FVGwJnITEaNeytYpFUS7g3VDp3QPn807RJDt8nHy5tY5i4m3yglSvrPFJ2xzqWXLSClO01weE0-HPMY4tgEcP6pbnBYYQ_uRWAPSLPm0I1f7nJdg/s320/DSC09826.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ronald without walking sticks! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixIsCMEuCgPfPidfvLzgKoVx24WOKoGkJDa-hGOc8k8zGWkCNF-CYNxvjMqPsoDoE6LotxlwQ9tcF1OJLq-wGxM6IPoraRfNp7uqBDXiTkAtP2jM7i7R_oekXAvfMKIKAGvnBH7NC_oR0/s1600/DSC09821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixIsCMEuCgPfPidfvLzgKoVx24WOKoGkJDa-hGOc8k8zGWkCNF-CYNxvjMqPsoDoE6LotxlwQ9tcF1OJLq-wGxM6IPoraRfNp7uqBDXiTkAtP2jM7i7R_oekXAvfMKIKAGvnBH7NC_oR0/s320/DSC09821.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hope! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-24386843751267105912017-01-02T02:02:00.005-08:002017-01-02T02:02:58.748-08:00Chapter 23 - Update #1 - December 28, 2016<b>SPECIAL NOTE: I have not yet finished the updates from Chapter 22! I am now on Chapter 23. I will be finishing Chapter 22 at a later date. For now...here is Chapter 23! </b><br />
<br />
So the past couple of weeks have been a whirlwind! December 18, 2016 we found ourselves at Disneyland where Kiana’s dreams came true! She was proposed to in front of Cinderella’s castle by her wonderful boyfriend, Taylor Bjur! It was the best Christmas present we could have received! Taylor & I celebrated our birthdays together at Disneyland with family as his birthday lands on December 23rd! Kiana & Taylor came home for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day before heading to his family for Christmas dinner! Kiana then came back home yesterday, December 27th to celebrate my birthday! Before heading back to Corona, Kiana dropped me off at LAX airport where I currently sit waiting to board a plane to head to Uganda to ring in the New Year with the Raining Hope family! Believe me, as I sit here I feel like I am in a dream! <br />
<br />
For those of you who are new to my updates, I want to get you ready for your part in this journey! My first trip to Uganda was a mission’s trip at the end of 2006. This is my 23rd trip to Uganda! The chapter coincides with the number of the trip. Each trip is a chapter of the larger story of my call to Africa. <br />
<br />
I am aware that I never quite finished the last few updates of Chapter 22! You are not missing any updates! I will be working on those while on the plane and hope you will find them once I arrive in Uganda! <br />
<br />
I write as a storyteller. You are on this journey with me. So many of you are supporting us through your prayers and your giving.. I may be the one going, but your hearts are what I share with the children. I want you to feel what I feel and see what I see. The only way to do that is by the words I write. I invite you into my story. I will be sitting in seat 57J. I will imagine you sitting with me to soak in all that God is doing! <br />
<br />
Updates are long as a story would be. I have tried to shorten them by doing bullet points but then it would be nothing more than a table of contents. I have tried highlighting key thoughts so like a speed reader, you could pick up on just the main points. But then the experiences were getting lost in the translation. I even tried writing shorter updates because a few said they were too long. It was similar to having a bad connection on the phone, only hearing every other word with the familiar, “Can you hear me now?” This approach did not allow the heartbeat of the mission to be communicated clearly. <br />
<br />
So I have gone back to doing what I know He has required of me. You know ahead of time that you are going to be reading a chapter in a story. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and find a nice, comfy chair to settle into. Prepare to journey with me into a story of God’s love for His children in a place called Raining Hope in a town called Jinja in Uganda on the continent of Africa.<br />
<br />
Because so much happens in one day, at times I will divide it into two emails. Words will come spilling out on the page. I want you to be right there with me as you read! Feel free to take breaks to absorb the excitement! I will be posting the same updates on our blog but will add photos. You can find us at www.raininghopeuganda.blogspot.com . Once in Uganda, I will try to send updates every few days depending on the reliability of the internet connection. <br />
<br />
So get ready for a grand adventure! Chapter 23 officially has begun!<br />
<br />
Happy New Year!<br />
Mama Eydie Kisakye <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-68969072333691337512016-11-14T09:21:00.001-08:002016-11-14T09:21:15.331-08:00Chapter 22 - Update #13 - Conference Part 2 <div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: 'Baskerville SemiBold'; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Baskerville;"><b>STEP IN, LEAN IN AND RISE! </b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Something very interesting happened </b>after we concluded Day 1 of the conference. Each night after the crusade or conference, Godfrey would debrief with his team of leaders. They would discuss how it went and what they could improve on for the next day. Then we would all meet and debrief together before our time of nightly devotions. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Have you ever taught a lesson, preached a message or led a devotion and when a listener is asked, “What did you learn today?” there is a blank stare, shrug of a shoulder or deafening silence? That is a speaker’s worse nightmare right?! When we began our debrief, Godfrey asked that question to the children & for a moment I was in that scary place! I didn’t realize that he was going to put them on the spot like that. By the look of surprise in their eyes, neither did they! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
During the conference, they were all attentive and very responsive. In my moment of wondering if I was a capable teacher…I looked around the room. I saw droopy eyes and tired bodies. The children had just had three full days of a crusade that involved setting up and moving equipment back and forth. We successfully had begun the conference but these long days were beginning to take its toll. It was like a car with a battery that just need a jump start! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>So I did something that ended up setting the tone for the rest of the conference. </b> Godfrey got up and started asking the children what the three points were that we learned today. Try to imagine, this but it is one of those things that you just had to be there! As Godfrey moved forward towards the kids, his back was turned to me. <b> I started signing to them.</b> He couldn’t see what I was doing. As he asked, <b>“What was the first point?”</b> I did an imaginary <b>BIG STEP forward.</b> They all looked at me as I was giving them a sign language hint. I took another BIG STEP. This time as Godfrey asked them, “What was the first point?” ALL HANDS SHOT UP IN THE AIR! He looked at me and I acted very innocent! In unison they said…”STEP IN!” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I was onto something. So when he asked for the second point, I used sign language and <b>LEANED forward. </b>ALL HANDS shot up again! In unison they all answered, “LEAN IN!” You know what happened as he asked for the third point. I used my hands to sign<b> “RISE” </b>and they all proudly raised their hands and yelled out, “RISE!!!” Through all the giggling there was new life in the room. They continued to expand on all their answers as to what God taught them on that first day. They just needed a little push start to wake them up. It was almost like a shot of caffeine infused the room. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
But this gave me the idea to use the sign language to emphasize the three points for the next two days! So as I prepared each day, the<b> points grew out of what signs would help them remember best & apply the truths to their lives. </b>They loved this! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Day Two I started asking what were the three points we learned yesterday. Because of our debrief last night, ALL our children proudly yelled out all three points! It set the stage to continue our journey. I talked about our assignment, our responsibility and getting ready. The three points were: </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
HE <b>POINTS THE WAY/</b>HE <b>LIGHTS THE WAY</b>/GO AND <b>SHINE - </b>This time I used the <b>sign language</b> to emphasize each point. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I started with the song,<b> “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again,” by Danny Gokey </b><a href="https://youtu.be/eUHRDCYnFfg">https://youtu.be/eUHRDCYnFfg</a><b> . </b> I encourage you to watch this particular clip of the song. It begins with Danny giving testimony of the inspiration behind the song. As we are on our journey, the words to the song become a part of our larger map: </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: 'Baskerville SemiBold'; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Baskerville;">“<b>Beginning </b>- Just let that word wash over you. It’s alright now - Love’s healing hands have pulled you through. <b> So get back up, take step one, leave the darkness, feel the sun. ‘Cause your story’s far from over and your journey’s just begun.” </b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Yesterday I left them standing ready to go. As I signed the song, “Rise,” I had our children <b>pass out stickers</b> I printed with the word, “RISE!” What was fun was seeing some of them still wearing that sticker on the second day! Yes, we were up & ready to GO. <b>God now would POINT THE WAY. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
When I was called to Uganda, God said GO. God <b>POINTED</b> the way. <b> I stepped in. </b>Through the years I gained more training through my work with CBU with International Service Project teams. Two important truths I teach when training are these points: </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>1. In order to go you have to leave</b>. Sounds simple but it can be a challenge. To experience all that God has waiting for you in its fullness you have to leave the comforts and culture of America behind to have no distractions moving forward. The same is true when we STEP into our journey. We need to leave our past and its troubles behind so we can experience all that God has waiting for us. <b> HE POINTS THE WAY. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>2. In order to be filled you have to empty yourself. </b>You can’t pour more into a cup that is already filled. How can you receive all that He has waiting for you if you bring all of America with you. God has so much for you on this journey, but if you don’t empty yourself how will you receive? <b>GOD POINTS THE WAY. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
This led to the second point. God doesn’t leave us in the dark. <b>GOD LIGHTS THE WAY</b> for us so we know where to go. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Our new Beacon of Hope sponsorship program has a new logo. It is a <b>beautiful lighthouse </b>with the Raining Hope logo in the place where the light begins radiating from the top of the tower. I had to explain what a lighthouse was as most people there had never seen or heard of one. “A tower or other structure containing a beacon of light to warn or guide ships to sea,” was the definition. But they got a laugh out of me trying to be a human lighthouse to make my point! <b>They did understand the comparison that we a light in a dark world. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. <b>Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. </b>Let your light so shine before me, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.’” Matthew 5:14-16.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
God lights the way. He wants us to follow His direction and give light to those around us. God wants us to<b> step in and SHINE before men. </b> Each person is given a unique assignment. My friend, Pastor Charles in Virginia encouraged me with this important message, “When you are using the gifts that you have uniquely been given for His Kingdom, people will catch your obedience and the love of God. Then they in turn will express their gifts fully. “ </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I used an example of how one of my gifts is encouragement. I write “notes under the door” to all the team members each day. I also write thank you cards and bring gifts to my friends at the hotel and in town. I normally bring a devotional book to specific friends at the hotel. Apophia in the business center gave me this testimony…</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
“I have a dream of opening up a library. I want to take all the books you have given me over the years and put them in a library so others can also enjoy them. I am getting closer to that dream. I also have been sharing with my children about the cards you write to me and the sweets that you leave for them. I began writing Scripture notes to them everyday too. They now have been going out, telling others about Jesus. They write scripture notes and sweets and give them to others.” The expressing of my gifts inspired them to express their gifts. <b>You never know what the expression of your gifts will do to encourage someone else. You are uniquely qualified for the assignment that God has created you for. No one else can STEP INTO IT. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
If you thought explaining a lighthouse to someone who has never seen one was interesting, try sharing the story of<b> Cinderella</b> to someone who has never hear of her! Oh yes. I did! But think about that familiar story. Fast forward to the glass slipper which by the way, in this story it was a Ugandan sandal that I threw onto the steps! It was a perfect illustration for the third point. No one else could STEP into her glass slipper. The same is true for your assignment. Only you can step in and fill it. No one else can do it They actually clapped at the end of the Cinderella story but it made the point! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
2 Corinthians 4:7 “We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not ourselves.”</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Remember that <b>BRIGHT little light </b>that lit up the stage when the power went out at the crusade? I hid that light inside a little basket. Covered up, no one knew that the light was in there. When I opened it up, they were shocked to see it was on. They made the correlation that they should not be hiding their gifts and their dreams. They are to SHINE brightly for Jesus to a very dark world. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
At this point, I asked everyone to yell out what they believe <b>their dreams or assignments from God are. </b> They spoke in unison very boldly proclaiming those dreams. Then we passed out pieces of paper for everyone to write them down. At the same time we gave stickers that said, “SHINE.” One of the updates I will dedicate to sharing just those pieces of paper so you can join me in praying for them. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
As I signed a song, <b>“Hope in Front of Me,” by Danny Gokey</b> <a href="https://youtu.be/O5GFiDdGGGM">https://youtu.be/O5GFiDdGGGM</a> I had each person come and place those “dreams” and “assignments” in a basket at the altar. <b>To take a break, if you can watch this video before finishing this update it will encourage your heart. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Think of those in attendance listening to this message. </b>So many of them are like those shown in this video. They have faced abusive situations, they have been told they are failures, they have been victims. <b>But watching them dedicate their dreams and assignments to God was inspiring. </b> “There’s a place at the end of the storm you finally find. Where the hurt and the tears and the pain all fall behind. You open up your eyes and up ahead there’s a big sun shining. Right then and there you realize you’ll be alright. There’s hope in front of me. There’s a light, I still see it.” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: 'Baskerville SemiBold'; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Baskerville;"><b>A beacon of light. A beacon of hope. God points the way. He lights the way. In a little spot in Jinja, Uganda, there are people who are proudly SHINING for Jesus. </b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
You are a part of this movement by joining us in prayer. </div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
SHINE ! mama eydie kisakye </div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-74751655203917495372016-11-10T08:33:00.002-08:002016-11-10T08:33:36.993-08:00Chapter 22 - Update #12 - Raining Hope Ministries Conference - Part 1 <div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(92, 66, 43); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #5c422b; font-family: Baskerville; margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
With the crusade behind us, on Thursday we were ready to switch gears and focus on the <b>conference. </b>Godfrey asked if I would lead the teaching during this equipping time. I start the teaching and he compliments it by bringing it all together at the end. The crusade was to be held back at the Raining Hope house. There would be a combination of attenders who are on different parts of their journey. We especially invited the new believers who had given their lives to Christ over the past few days of the crusade. There would be those that have been believers for quite some time desiring to grow deeper in their walk with Christ. We prayed many more would attend that were just plain curious from the three days in the marketplace. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The children were very busy preparing our compound to receive visitors that afternoon. I am amazed at how our large “porch” area that faces the large open space of our compound has turned out to be a perfect “stage” for our Sunday Services! It causes me to stand back in awe seeing how <b>God is in all of the details of every aspect of our lives! </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>The porch </b>is large enough to hold ALL of the equipment, sound board and still have a lot of space for the choir to sing and move! When I sat and participated in worship, I just marveled at the absolute perfect setting for His Word to be proclaimed! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>The tent </b>that was so graciously provided for by precious donors covered the area where people were seated. The tent held the <b>one hundred new chairs t</b>hat we purchased just in time for the conference. In order to keep the musicians and machines dry from rain & protected from the sun, Godfrey and his group of friends also used additional tarps to create a <b>temporary awning or overhang from the house to the tents.</b> It amazed me how creative they were using just tarps designed for the car and long pieces of timber for poles. It did the job and kept them dry and cool! Eventually the dream will be to have an awning installed that will compliment the house & the tents. When you see some of the photos they have an orange tint because the tarps were orange! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Remember how at the crusade started on Ugandan time each day? The conference was no different! I just waited until they were ready to pick me up. Because I was leading the teaching, they didn’t want to pick me up until just before it was my turn. <b> I appreciated their protection of the speaker and the reverence for His Word. </b>One of the days I told Godfrey I could come early and just study in the back room. But he said it was better for me to stay at the hotel so I wouldn’t be distracted or interrupted by others. He wanted me to just focus on what the Lord had me to share. I love it. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
As we set the tone for the next three days, I began by signing the song<b> “Spirit of the Living God” by Meredith Andrews </b>that I shared in a previous update. <a href="https://youtu.be/rYq0S7BLNNk"><span style="color: black;">https://youtu.be/rYq0S7BLNNk</span></a> I know when you signed up to be on their journey with me, sitting in seat 17C on Alaska Air or 47H & 45A on Emirates, you had no idea this would be so long! So while you read these updates on the conference,<b> take a moment and click on the links to the songs. </b> Close your eyes as you listen and <b>transport yourself back to the tent at Raining Hope. </b> Hear what they heard and feel what they felt. I want you to in some way experience what we did as we watched the Holy Spirit take hold of hearts and grow deeper in love with Jesus. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
These words in the song were key, “We’re leaning in to all you are - everything else can wait. Spirit of the Living God - come now and breathe upon our hearts - come now and have your way.” The theme of the conference was “Christ in You - The Hope of Glory.” Each day I had a specific emphasis to the message. <b>The first day it was, “Step in - Lean in - and Rise.” </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Because of the various levels of where people were on their journey with Christ, my responsibility was to speak truth in a way that would minister to each person at their need. So the <b>focus on the first day</b> was born out of these three points: </div>
<ol>
<li style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"></span> What you have <b>stepped into </b> 2) How to <b>lean in </b> 3) Time to step out and <b>rise</b></li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I emphasized that we are all on the same journey whether we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior yesterday or years ago. We have<b> stepped into</b> the most exciting journey of our lives that will continue into eternity! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Try to picture when we all “boarded” the flight on my 22nd journey to Uganda. Our flight was only partially filled. On the Emirates 380 planes, there is a whole upper deck that the economy level never sees. You almost forget that there is another level unless you see the fancy staircase towards the front of the plane leading to the exclusive level upstairs. Thanks to the commercials on TV with Jennifer Aniston promoting Emirates, we have a glimpse into what that First Class/Business level actually looks like! Once our conference started I could envision the attendees joining us on our flight! There is plenty of room for new passengers! Unlike Emirates, our flight has everyone on the same level. We are all First Class as sons and daughters of the King of Kings! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
The first point about <b>“Stepping In” </b>was focused on this journey they joined regardless of when that was. I used an example of a famous but now non-existent tourist attraction called <b>Bujagali Falls in Jinja. </b>It is not a waterfall, but used to have beautiful rapids of exciting rushing water. But a new dam has stopped the flow of water. It is now flat and locals call it “ugly.” I asked the question, “Is your life exciting and moving or has it become stagnant not moving forward? Is something blocking the flow and power from the Lord like the dam?” The first point was to help give those a <b>map to help them start well.</b> For those who have been believers for awhile, we also wanted to help to lift the obstacles that would allow living water to rush and flow again! </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>New believers many times don’t know where to start. </b> The <b>second point </b>emphasized the need to<b> LEAN INTO GOD. </b> The main focus was leaning in and developing a <b>daily relationship with Him. </b> We emphasized the need to daily be in<b> prayer and in His Word. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Raining Hope (Psalms Ten for the first two years) has had many difficulties over the past ten years since I was called to Uganda. <b>We officially became Raining Hope on 9-9-09. </b> The next update will talk about our anniversary. We were filled with hopes and dreams for the future. Things were good. But then at one point life just seemed to come crashing down. Life became hard. We faced so many challenges in Uganda and here in the states. I had some who told me I couldn’t do this. I had others tell me what I was doing was impossible. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
<b>Ronald’s testimony was powerful on this first night. </b> You know the story. He was walking down the road when he was hit by a van. Suddenly he was lying helpless. The story told to his sister Tabitha was that his legs were crushed. Does that sound familiar in our own lives? We are minding our own business and suddenly we are hit. <b>Suddenly, hopes and dreams can be crushed right before your eyes. </b>I encouraged our children that our family stayed strong and courageous during these valley times. (Joshua 1:9). Part of the song, “Rise” by Danny Gokey says this, “Lift your head and look around you. See the dreams you lost, they have found you. And the heart that once was beating is coming back to life, coming back to life.” </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
So the <b>third point</b> was you’ve stepped into your journey, you are leaning in the hear from Him, now it is time to <b>RISE up and get moving forward! </b> Ronald’s leg is healing. At the time he was using walking sticks (crutches) and had to sit a lot. He now has had the cast (they call it cement) removed! Praise the Lord. He still uses the sticks but less and less. At one point they thought he would not make it. Yet he did not give in or give up. <b> He will walk and run again. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: 'Baskerville SemiBold'; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Baskerville;"><b>Dreams are coming alive again at Raining Hope. </b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
I want to finish this update with a testimony from Jonathan. He is one of two of our students who is currently in nursing school. While I was there, he and Jessica were just beginning clinical work with the hospital for training purposes. This is<b> part of the letter he wrote to me </b>once I came home regarding his dreams… <b> “ I greet you in Christ our Father.</b> … Suddenly we have new machines and am in process of learning the guitar because I always come back on weekends and am taught how to play it. My life now is full of wonders and it’s my Heavenly Father who is working in me.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
At first in the hospital, <b>patients called me doctor</b> and I really couldn’t believe because I thought they were calling someone else. But when I realized that they were calling me, deep down inside I felt happy because that was the best day in my life that I will never forget MUM.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
At this moment God is doing wonders at Raining Hope. The best thing is that my sisters and brothers are happy in Christ. We are all remnants and priceless in the midst of God’s presence. Even people call me doctor now days both outside and inside the ward. We pass through hardship and battle but I want to encourage you that the Lord who started this great job will accomplish it. Will always put you in prayers and your family back in the states since we are now one in Christ. The Ugandan Dream is real and it’s there because of the theme that says we should be strong and courageous. Love you and miss you mum. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b>Your son, Dr. Jonathan </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Thank you all for the support you give to the children of Raining Hope. We finished the conference that night with the song, <b>“Rise.”</b> <a href="https://youtu.be/8eUGUC4Ko30"><span style="color: black;">https://youtu.be/8eUGUC4Ko30</span></a> They all signed along with me as the words encouraged them to “rise, breaking the dark, piercing the night.” The children at Raining Hope know they were made for more. They were made to shine. <b>They are an army of hope bringing the world a radiant light. </b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
It is time for all of us to rise and be <b>HIS LIGHT</b> in a dark world and be <b>HIS Beacon of Hope. </b> Will you join us in the <b>blooming, radiant bouquet of His light and hope?! </b></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Baskerville; text-indent: 27px;">
Speechless ! mama eydie kisakye </div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2636233816162161099.post-82996628338632810542016-11-01T12:25:00.000-07:002016-11-01T12:25:42.407-07:00Chapter 22 - Update #11 - Raining Hope Crusade Part 3 - Testimonies <div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I write, I am on a flight home from Maryland and Florida. There is something inspiring about writing updates from a seat high above the earth below. This flight I am in seat 10F and picture you next to me as we pick up the conversation about the end of the crusade. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each night at the conclusion of the crusade, we would have to pack up all of the sound equipment and transport it back to the house. Godfrey had talked about hiring police as security guards to watch over the equipment overnight. I am glad that we didn’t go with that option. It just meant additional time needed to set up and tear down each night. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope you have been able to see the Disney movie, “Queen of Katwe,” in theaters now! It would give you an idea of the marketplace we were in for the crusade. The shops and places where the people live are mainly like wooden shacks. The main road is paved but the marketplace itself is on plots of dirt. At this time of the day, many people are traveling by foot home from work. As it became dark, paraffin candles begin to light up the darkness of the market. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the last evening, when we got back to the house we spent a long time unpacking the three days of the crusade. The following are the <b>testimonies from some of our children and guests of what the crusade meant to them. </b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>JEREMIAH: </b>(Godfrey’s friend) “I thank God who used us in a mighty way. I want to thank the singers (Raining Hope choir). They were so well coordinated. I remember watching the movie, “Woodlawn” (<i>This is one of the Christian movies we watched throughout the week</i>). It reminded me that we can start in a bad state but end well. The first day of the crusade we had challenges with setting up. But we brought the Word of God and we prayed. We continued on and praised the Lord. He showed Himself alive in the ministry. Praise the Lord that we are conquerors! Birds of a feather fly together! Amen! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FRANK:</b> I learned that HE IS the LIGHT OF THE WORLD! <b>We have something HOT! </b> I am thankful to be a part of Raining Hope Ministries. We started with power. We saw many lives touched. People who came gave their time and listened to the messages from God. They heard the praises being lifted to God. I saw a change in people’s lives. Whether I was working at the machines or using the camera, I saw God move. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>HENRY: </b> I thank God for the machines (sound equipment)! I am thankful that as a ministry we all had the heart to work together. EVERYONE tried to find something to do. I thank God for using us. At times it was not easy but we did it together. When we were leaving on the last night , I had some ladies ask me if we were coming back. They were sad the crusade was over, but I was able to invite them to come to the house for the conference the next day! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>SYLVIA: </b> (<i>Sylvia & Hillary are the directors of the choir</i>) All I wanted to do was stand and praise God. I lost my voice at the beginning of the crusade. I asked God to restore my voce and as I stood on that first night, my voice came back! I thanked God for his grace! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>HILLARY; </b> God used me and I am blessed. During the crusade I was humbled to think “Who am I to be a part of this team?” We watched as people gave their lives to Christ. This is not just a job, this is important. The song you shared called, “Spirit of the Living God,” was a picture of that I was feeling. When God speaks and moves He does what only He can do and it changes us! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>JOANNE:</b> (<i>younger Joanne</i>) I learned when we trust in the Lord, we will manage. I was nervous on the first day. Even when we did the songs with Mama Kisakye…we had not practiced together yet we were always unified. We managed as one! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>TABITHA: </b> I am thankful for the grace of God. When we first stood and all eyes were on us, I was nervous. But seeing people saved gave us courage! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>SOPHIA:</b> I know that it was not me. It was the grace of God that allowed me to minister. I thank God that I am in the Raining Hope choir. If it were not for His grace, I would have been doing it with pride. I am speechless. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>DOREEN: </b> Raining Hope helps us stand in power as one body. It gave us courage. <i> (On the second night the generator completely stopped working.) </i>A friend of mine who was there said, “Even though the generator disturbed you, the pulpit was not discouraged. I wanted more. I wanted you to come back, for the whole week.” I was able to invite them to come back to the house for the conference and for Sunday worship! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>BYARUHANGA: </b>(Godfrey’s friend) I am speechless! I am appreciative of all that was done. The devil tried to disorganize the crusade. But we gave God our best. We prayed. We trusted God for these things. Thank God He enabled us. At the end I was feeling so good I want it to continue. I am thankful for Godfrey for inviting us. We have to be conquerors. The power was a challenge but we still ended up on top. <b>I also want to say that most choirs in Africa fail because of pride and lack of unity. But the Raining Hope Choir is very unified. </b> I love these people who are so united. <b>I LOVE THE UNITY. It is hard to find people like this. This is RARE.</b> Please keep this in your heart and don’t change. If you get prideful it is the beginning of the end. I was very proud of the choir. I also saw how people were very impacted. People were praying everywhere during the time of invitation. Keep the light burning. I am grateful for what was done. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>GODFREY: </b>Many times on the first day of a crusade people walking by question and can say, “What do these people come to do? They should go.” At some crusades people get fed up. But we were different. I saw people walk in and stay. People see Jesus in us. Now that the community knows who we are and who we represent, they will be watching. They want to see if you are strong in your faith. As you walk to and from school or go to the market, you need to remember you represent Jesus. If they continue to see a consistency in your walk with Christ, we pray that they too will want to follow Christ. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This continues to confirm what I wrote about in Update #9 about the crusade. Godfrey & I are beginning to see the challenge that comes with outside help to run an <b>evangelistic crusade. </b>Having “muzungus” (white people) come to lead in the preaching is something we are reevaluating. It has nothing to do with the heart of those who come to serve. It has everything to do with <b>culture and gaining credibility</b> within the people group which takes time. Part of Godfrey’s testimony that we were different and people stayed was due to the fact that<b> he was preaching and the children were leading.</b> The children felt empowered and encouraged in their own assignments from God. <b> I have never seen them so confident as they ministered. </b>That night as we praised God and thanked Him for a very successful crusade, we remained speechless and in awe. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Before the start of the crusade, Godfrey encouraged the children that God is sending us out, “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here I am. Send me!’” Isaiah 6:8. Our Raining Hope Children are GOING out to Ambercort and beyond knowing He is with us wherever He sends us! Next three updates will be about the conference! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our bouquet is blooming! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-indent: 27px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">mama eydie kisakye </span></div>
Eydie Miskelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01486062969656523110noreply@blogger.com0