Update #6 East Africa

As Dave would say, Aaayo! 

Today was, to say the least, full of love and amazing memories. We started the day as we have every morning thus far, at Courage Café. Friends back home, please rate them a 5 star review on Google Maps. We promise it’s amazing. Don’t think twice, just do it 🙂

When we got to the House, the girls greeted us with big smiles. Their joy is a constant reminder of how powerful the Lord is. We started our day with praise/worship and, as usual, it was moving. My favorite part was when Lauren and I started swing dancing to Praise. The girls laughed at us at first, but then everyone began to dance and we all ended up on stage. After praise and worship, Isaac and I shared our testimonies. It inspired one of my best rafikis (friends) to share hers, as well. Her choice to share her testimony proved her to be nguvu (strong) and jasiri (courageous). 

We continued our teachings about Joshua 1:9 (shoutout to Grace who is incredible for planning all of our VBS lessons), ate lunch with the girls, played games, and had a spa day. The girls especially loved the nail painting station and the makeup/hair station. pictures below After a surprise fashion show and dance performance put on by the girls we ended our day with our final small group dance performances. We all had so much fun and the girls did great! 

I have the privilege and honor of being assigned today’s blog post on one of our hardest days because today was the day we said “See you later!” to our new friends. Many “nakupendas” (I love you) were said, many hugs were given, some tears were shed, and many smiles were shared. I know I speak for everyone when I say that these girls love and joy that they put into the world is infectious. Their love and joy for life, their love and joy for others, their love and joy for God, it is all breathtaking. Although leaving was hard, I know that this experience is something we will never forget. God is so alive here and in these girls, it’s remarkable. 

Asante sana (thank you so much) to all of our friends and family following along with us on this journey. Tunakupenda (We love you)

Mom and Dad if you’re reading this, yes I’m alive and yes the food is good here.

-Toni