1 March 2007

Today was a better day. Josh bought Lydia a little soccer ball at the supermarket today so she had something to play with the kids. We found a new supermarket that actually had carts. It is a nice one and the Indian owner is so friendly. He is the first store owner who wanted to interact with us. Little things make our day here – like a new found store.

Grace seems to be talking more and more. She is happier finally too. She says, “nigh-night” really cute “thank-you” and her favorite “cookie”. She says hi, bye-bye, and NO with quite a bit of attitude to everyone including me. Grace also has adorable curls in her hair here. Lydia is BIG on the why questions. And she is just so smart. She keeps me on my toes.

Angie and I took a walk with the girls today and the guys went greeting later in the day. Our neighborhood has a lot of refugees. It really is a needy area and I feel God has put us here on purpose. We want to live among our ministry and we are. There are at least three school right around us and a couple hostels. The guys met the lady right behind us in a hut. She is a widow with six children eight and under. Can you imagine? How does she do it? How can they make it?

We hired an armed guard today. (Through an company.) His name is Patrick.
He is 21 years old and very friendly. He loves Jesus! By the way his gun is a world war I or II left over. He has a story too. He was abducted by the LRA (the war in the north) and escaped after three years. I can't even fathom what he has gone through. His parents were killed by the Karamojong when he was a kid. Lydia really likes Patrick. She asked why we needed a guard to protect us, from mosquitoes?

I have complained, been frustrated, and got angry with my situation this week. Yet, God has shown me through my neighbors how much He has blessed me. How much I have to be thankful for. I have a new gratitude for my new home and all God has provided us with.