Kilimanjaro Journey

You know you live in Africa when...

2012-02-05T14:00:00.001+03:00

...instead of being asked, "how are you feeling?" I am asked, "how many parasites do you have?" Yes, all fun and games till your parasite count is to high! The director of the school chuckles to himself and says, "quite something how a little bug can lay you out flat." I do not know how many parasites I currently have. Since I am feeling better I would think that the count is dwindling. I will have another blood test on Wednesday marking 10 days from when I consumed the medicine in its entirety. I still experience headaches, tiredness, and an occasional lingering fever. If the parasite is no longer present then I can concentrate on rebuilding my strength. If the parasite remains then it will be another round of medication. I hope for the first!

It has been over a week since I discovered my battle with malaria. This time last week I could barely lift my head from the pillow. Much improvement and for that I am grateful. Once the fever broke there were still many moments of being tied to my bed. Variety of thoughts roamed in and out of my head. At first, many were negative thoughts of frustration. We often like to ask the "why" questions. Why now when I am so far away from home and Milo do I get so so sick. Why when I worked so hard to be able to attend school and striving so hard to learn swahili. "Why do I have to suffer from malaria?" Yes, I asked the questions but when in reality when is it a good time to get malaria? (There are an awful lot of "I's" in those thoughts!) I wearily stepped out of my bed and took my Bible. My study for the week was on Job (pause) appropriate. We are people who want an explanation! Don't we? We want to understand why and we are constantly reminded in those moments that we rarely get a reason! I was reminded as I lay in bed sick that the questions I was asking were ones of flesh. The greater stake in life is that of our spiritual self. We live in a broken evil world that has things like malaria. My thoughts shift to that of my Tanzanian friends. Malaria is as common here as the flu in the States. So common in fact that with the hint of the symptoms people treat it as malaria rather than spending money for a test. And, when someone is sick they will typically say it is malaria regardless if it is or not. As I lay here in my bed I realized that I am not exempt. To live here is to take the good and the bad. Because now when one of my friends talk of malaria my point of view has been influenced tremendously!

So, how has malaria influenced me? A story I remember my veteran teammates told came to mind after passing out mosquito bed net. A mzee (swahili for an older person) told them: "I thought malaria was from a curse. I didn't know there was something we could do to not get it." By passing out a $10 net he discovered a "why" answer of the spiritual realm. To know that he has not been forgotten and that someone cares about him. In Africa, malaria is a curse, but a preventable and curable one. A child in Africa dies of malaria every 30 seconds. Over 60,000 deaths in Tanzania are of malaria and 80% of those deaths are children under the age of 5 years old. Babies who are mal-nourished and not strong enough to fight the parasite. As I scanned the information and statics of malaria it brought me to tears. 80% of "my Tanzanian babies" are dying before there is a chance to tell them about Jesus. How has malaria influenced me? I have a first hand experience with the awful plague because we live in a fallen world. But, I grow in strength that we can break the curse with the hope that the best days can be yet to come in Christ.

How has this influenced you? Many of you have sent well wishes and notes of encouragement. I understand some have studied and read up on malaria. When someone you know is suffering it becomes more real. Does it not? Several have asked if there is something you could do? A moment of dancing in the rain came this idea. I have become convicted about assisting to break the chains of the curse especially for "my kids." I am here to share the gospel. There is something you can do to continue to partner in this venture. A mosquito net will assist with prevention of malaria. This can then lead to opportunity to share hope of a life in Christ. One net stretches over a family bed can reduce percentages of malaria and hundreds of lives can be spared. Yes, there is something we can do!

If you have been influenced by this journey of malaria like, I have, then I encourage you to be a part. Here are some suggestions:

If you are a monthly supporter who would like to increase an additional $10 for a net. You can send it in with your monthly pledged when scheduled. I suggest you let me know by e-mail wendy.tanzania@gmail.com an amount to be set it aside for "net" fund.
If you would like to send in a special one time finical gift for "nets" you are welcome to click the giving link at the top left hand side of this blog. Or funds can be mailed to: CMF International Wendy Wagoner 400300 "nets"/ 5525 E. 82nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46250
Kids can rally around helping kids! If your Sunday School or Kids Club would like this on as a project this year you can request CMFI's "Take a Bite Out of Malaria" project, go to http://cmfi.org/partner/missionsresources/vbs to request information. Send finical gifts by way of the second bullet point listed to "take a bite out of malaria."

This will be something that as there are funds available to buy needed nets we will use them to evangelize to kids within Tanzania about malaria prevention but mostly about the love of Jesus. For the days I have breath I will continue to be a part of the great adventure of telling people about Jesus here in Tanzania. Breaking the curse of darkness and sharing the light! "In this life you will have trouble but take heart I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) There will be many things we do not understand but there is one thing that I know! That is that I have the ability to share who has overcome the world. I want to be a part of breaking the statistics of malaria because they represent lost souls! Join me on the front lines of the battle!

Prayer Points~

It would be a stretch to say that I am grateful for Malaria. Not true at all. Malaria is a terrible sickness that inflicts many here. Through being very sick I have found a sense of gratitude for what I have learned. And how I can be a tool to share with you as a tool and journey along side my Tanzanian Friends. They say you are not Tanzanian till you have suffered from Malaria. I have now experienced many good and bad things of living here. I want to be a part of shattering this curse!
Please continue to pray for my strength and healing.
Pray as I continue to stay a float with school. Nets are a tool but knowing Swahili is the Key! Being properly equipped with this key is vital!

Breaking the Curse

Courage is not being so dumb as to not be scared....

courage is being scared and doing the right thing anyway.

May we be courageous!

Mid-Week Check-In

2012-02-01T13:36:00.001+03:00

Here is the middle of the week progress report! With each day there is improvement! Yesterday evening I finally felt somewhat back to myself. I could think clearly, move about without getting dizzy, stand/sit for longer periods of time. Finally, the fever and headaches can be controlled by ibuprofen. I was relieved to feel more like myself and set a goal to attend as much class as I could today (Wednesday.) It was a successful goal. Even though I am a little frustrated being behind my mind welcomed the task again. I actually was attending class for over a week or more with the parasite at work and what I call "Malaria Mind." I thought I was struggling with concentration because schooling was intense and tiring. Really, I was operating with "Malaria Mind" and didn't realize. Believe me school is still tiring! But, the parasite had begun its work. A mean little thing it is! Today, it was a relief to be able to think and concentrate on the material. The teachers are kind and assisting to catch me up but I have some work to do!

My body has a few more steps to catch up with my mind. I made it through class but the later two periods I began to feel the tiredness set in. As my red blood cells replenish I will gain my strength back. For now I find rest when I can and begin to get back into the swing of the schedule. My appetite is increasing. Even with being several pounds lighter I do not recommend this as a weight loss plan! Right now I would compare my symptoms to like having mono. I feel run down and tired. With the length of time that I had malaria and it being my first time to have it the veterans say that it is normal. I guarantee you there is nothing normal about malaria! I continue to take one day at a time and drink lots of water!

How grateful I am for the kind well wishes and prayers of friends, family, and supporters. It is very difficult to be so sick and far away. But, thankful for kind words sent by today's technology to help keep you close! My new friends here at language school were kind to help and bring comfort as well.
I am thankful even through the tears of hardship.

Prayer Points~

continued strength by increased number of red blood cells
quick mind to catch up on my studies
to have patience with my recovery and learning
no more reoccurring fever
The nun whose room is next to me now has malaria, also. They were able to catch hers sooner and she has already had it once. They say the recovery should be easier for her.
Praise and Glory to God for my recovery and protection while being so severely sick

Week 3

2012-01-29T20:45:00.001+03:00

"Learning a language and culture through relationships in a community requires a tremendous commitment to the people of the new language... If your goal is to live with people, to love and serve them, and to become a belonger in your new community, then learning the language will prove to be a great means to that goal. And learning the language will probably become quite manageable!"

Tom Brewster

This is the quote that I found comfort in at the beginning of this week. I am not sure I can say Swahili is completely at a manageable state. But, the intentionality of the heart mission continues to point in that direction! However, the end of the week is probably what you might be more interested in at this point. Come Thursday there were many things not so manageable as malaria was confirmed in a blood test.

Malaria~ Yes, I have it. The Director of the School along with several of my teammates say now I can truly be called Tanzanian. I am not sure that I have been up to finding comfort in this. While my eyes are open I will try to tell you a little about the nasty little bug!

What is Malaria?

Malaria is caused by a parasite that's transmitted by mosquitoes. A mbu (mosquito) becomes infected by feeding on a person who has malaria. If you are the next person this mosquito bites, it can transmit malaria parasites to you. The parasite then travels to the liver. When the parasites mature, they leave the liver and infect the red blood cells. This is when an individual like myself develops symptoms.

Malaria has reoccurring symptoms of the following~

Moderate to severe shaking chills, high fever, profuse sweating

Additional signs can be headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

Despite my mosquito net, malaria prevention meds, and OFF~ I got it! The school is located in a higher malaria zone and in the first week I woke up with many many bites. Why, well, I don't know they are just man eating creatures that spread not good things. They sprayed my room and fixed my net. There can be different strands of malaria. The way your body reacts to meds to despite all the measures to keep from getting it sometimes you do. And, I did!

I have been tired with a recurring headache for a week. I thought it was from studying and adjusting to my new environment. On Thursday I went to class and became very cold. Very very cold~ in Africa usually is not a good thing. I returned to my room on breaks two different times for more clothes. I was freezing! I kept plugging away in class but became very ill with a severe headache. I went up to my bed thinking I was getting the flu. I rested for an hour my headache got better but my chills were severe. The Director of the school came and decided that I should go to the area clinic to have my blood tested. I sat in front of a man with a microscope who pricked my finger. Then, waited for 15mins so the blood would dry on the slide. The slide was then read where they saw the dreaded parasites.

These days have not been fun. My fever comes and goes and when it goes high is when it is really not fun. Recurring as they call it. It is a tease and not a fun one. Slowly slowly everyday is a better one. Today, I was able to get up and take a shower. Major progress! The mornings I usually feel better and then my fever returns later in the afternoons. They say the first time is the worst and yes, it can relapse but lets just focus on this time for now. Basically, it is kinda the worst flu ever! I feel like I have been hit by a truck. I finished the doses of medication this morning and we will wait to see if they have killed the parasite. It takes some time for the body to recover from this. The red blood cells have to replace but hopefully the fever will no longer be an issue. Everyday I pray for that right now. The headache and tiredness will probably be with me for a few more weeks.

I am glad to read well wishes when I wake and grateful for the prayers! This is not fun but I am getting through one day at a time. I know many of you are anxious to hear. This is the easiest way than to e-mail but know I enjoy reading your individual notes. This post has been a work in progress for several days piece by piece after many sleeping moments.

This week the prayer points are a bit more obvious.
Please pray for healing and for my body to recover!

pray for the fever to subside
for new red blood cells

Week 2 of this 16 Week Venture!

2012-01-22T19:05:00.001+03:00

I am grateful for the e-mails and facebook messages along the journey. It is intense and very difficult. Your thoughts and prayers are much appreciated. As difficult as it is I am thankful that this is a well organized program. I am very impressed and can learn to love it even when I hate it at the same time! Learning a foreign language everyday all day is intense and extremely tiring. The teachers are very good and I have waited a very long time for this systematic study of Kiswahili! Currently it is a love/hate thing! (smile) I am told that after the first month it begins to get easier. I am half way through that so I will keep on pressing on! By, Thursday of this week I was in tears not sure if I could keep going. I will try to explain why. Swahili is a fun language and I enjoy pronouncing! It is a language developed by sounds and how things are spoken. Many of the rules of sentence structure make very little sense. It is very difficult to wrap your brain around. There 12 noun Classes. We have currently learned 3 of them. Each class of nouns have a set of words. Each set of words have a singular, plural, positive and negative. Are you getting the picture? A lot of words for one word! So, this and these have a different word for each class. Pocessives "my" and "a" A-binder have different pre-fixes for different classes. I understand the words and their categories but going back and forth to pull the different pieces for sentences is painful to the brain! I know it takes time and I will get it but it is no picnic here in Makoko!

Some have requested to learn Swahili words along the way! So, each week I will give you some words you can look at, pronounce, or skip over in the post! My niece Bella has made my day by sitting at the computer saying my name! Then, this week she got on Skype and said, "Jambo Ninny!" She turns two years old this week! If she can learn a few words I know you can too!

Swahili Words with Wendy:
HuJambo /Jambo - How's the matter (How are you?) SiJambo (reply) News is good
Habari za Asubuhi - How is your morning? nzuri - Good
Mungu - God
Asente - Thank You

I have made some friends! Friday Night to have a break we went down to a place on the Lake. We ate fish and chips. The sound of the water and sites of the birds mad for a relaxing break!

Fish & Chips TZ Style!

Prayer Points ~

Wisdom and Patience
A clear mind! As a friend reminded me "wherever you are be ALL there!"
I know it may sound silly but I really miss Milo of an evening/night.
Health and Safety! One of the workers found and killed a black mamba by our front step!

January E-Newsletter

2012-01-15T12:12:00.001+03:00

http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=824b4b0455c08b42cdd1d53da&id=15891721dd

Makoko Language School

2012-01-13T15:26:00.003+03:00

First week of Kiswahili School. First of all, I need you to understand that I may no longer make sense even in English! During these early learning weeks I may not spell things correctly or place words in proper order no matter what language. This process is very intense and after the first week I feel like I have swum the English Chanel. A fellow student corrected me that we are currently swimming the Kiswahili Chanel! We are tired!

This is my new room for the next several months. It is simple but clean. I have my own room and we live above our classrooms. There are eighteen in our entire class but we are broken up into smaller learning groups. I have three in my group and I enjoy their company on this venture. Being in a small group learning is very intense and one on one. Our teachers very in ages and gender. Each period is about 40mins in length.

1. Conversation ~ Mazungumzo

2. Story ~ Hadithi

3. Grammer ~ Sarufi

Chai Break

4. Exercise ~ Mazoezi

5. Exercise ~ Mazoezi

Lunch

Rest Hour

6. Language Lab

Our teachers rotate between each group so that we hear how different people speak and various tribal dialects. Over all I am very impressed with the school and the approach to learning. Already in the first week so much more of the language makes sense. I have a little advantage for the rest of my classmates do not have as much experience with being in the country. I enjoy my new friends and I really like being in Musoma. It is a nice village and people are kind. The school is well known in the area and Tanzanians enjoy assisting us with learning our Kiswahili. There are a total of 12 noun classes and we learned the first class this week. Words are broken up into classes to show singular/plural and rules are in connection with which class it is in. No beginner vocab we jumped right in!

study time/new wall decor!

Prayer Points~

My mind to be open to the new rules that need to be retained
a flexible tongue that adapts to new sounds
health ~ bugs are much more of a concern here
for a good memory and not to get frustrated
patience, rest, and energy

Safari (Journey)

2012-01-10T15:44:00.002+03:00

Our journey began on Tuesday. I said goodbye to my friends in Arusha and one last teary snuggle with Milo. Leaving my home in Arusha and Milo behind was difficult. I was ready to begin this next season but those two things made the first steps very difficult. We arrived in Karatu to spend the night in good time. We enjoyed a game of dominos while we waited for the sun to set so we good get a good nights rest for the next big day of travel.

Our second day of travel began early. We reached the Ngorongoro Crater in good time and enjoyed the sites going through the area. Giraffe were all around to welcome us to the area. I continue to be amazed at our God who is the Great Creator! We saw the first of many baby animals of the day. We saw baby giraffe, elephant, hippo, monkey, wildebeest, wart hog, muskrat and, zebra. Fun sites indeed!

But, the most amazing was to be in the middle of the great wildebeest migration. It is said that over 2 million wildebeest make the trek south from the Serengeti to the Crater and Terengeri. There were

wildebeest as far as the eye could see. I wish that my camera could capture this but with the distance they merely look like ants. They were grazing while we made our way through the Ngorongoro Area towards the Serengeti but they spread for miles and miles! Even through my camera does not due it justice I can also say that National Geographic is unable to picture the magnitude of something like this. You just have to see it!

The Serengeti did not disappoint in its sites as well. We continued on our journey picnicking in the car for most of our meals. During the heat of

day the lion rested in a tree. The way her belly was sagging on the tree made us think that she looked pregnant. We also had some amazing views of the elephants along the bumpy road. They were crossing the road at one point. The grasses are taller than usual and all of a sudden we saw a baby elephant as it came through the grass onto the road. The grass covered the top of its head and wasn't too much time and he was hidden again just as quick as he appeared! I felt like I was in the movie Lion King! The way the eland (white bird) circles the backs of the water buffalo heard as typical African scenery is breath taking.

Later in the day is when we found one obstacle on top of another. The roads are rough and we encountered our first flat tire. As Ron changed the tire we three girls were around the car watching for animals. That is when this picture of me in the Serengeti was taken. Otherwise it is not recommended to EVER be out of your vehicle. It was also difficult to make sure we were heading in the right direction. Signs never mark directions or place and sometimes when they do they are not always accurate! However, Bwana Romanee (manee for short) which means Sir Map is the name given to my trusty GPS that was given to me as a gift. He did not let me down and helped

find our way. This is when it really gets tricky cause we then had another flat tire. My vehicle only has one spare. So, yes, major problem when you have already had one and no place to repair it yet. We barley had time to worry when a car of my same model came along. This was quite a blessing because the passing of cars are few let alone for it to be the same model! We explained our trouble. We used their spare tire and began to follow them to where they were staying for the night. We hoped they would be able to have someone to help fix both of our tires. Once again not far down the road the outer rubber began falling off of our friend's car ahead of us. We tried to detach it with my mchettee but it didn't come a part. Then, we gave them back their spare tire. Then went on ahead of us back to where they were staying carrying our spare tire to try to fix then return to help us. It is important to be out of the park by 6:30pm or at a place to stay for the night. We it became that hour and we were neither. This is when we began to really feel the presence of your prayers. We were in the middle of the Serengeti watching the beautiful sunset but yes pretty much stuck. We didn't panic. The tire was opposite for us so we placed the rubber flapping tire on our car and began inching towards the lodge. I have to take a break to explain the additional thing that is happening during this time. Tinsi Flies are terrible little creatures that I will ask God why about later. But, they are flies found where the animals are and they are the worst things that you have every encountered. I even saw a green mamba (I was in the car) and will still say these flies are the worst EVER! They have a mean bite and circled us as we got out to change the tires. Our car was moving slow and they would cover the car sides just waiting for an opening. We had welt spots all over from these mean little things. It was like a clip of a scary movie. I think Tinsi Flies could over take the world if they wanted! Back to the car covered with tinsi flies inched slowly for two hours to the lodge. We watched the sun go down and kept praying for safety as darkness fell over the land. Not many people can say they had a night drive in the Serengeti. I am finding my experiences to be more and more in that category. We made it to the lodge and there were people there who helped us with a place to stay. The next morning we found people who could fix our tires and refuel. Then, we were on our way again. We reached Lake Victoria a day late but we were relieved when we arrived. However, the term Lake does not do it justice. I can not begin to truly paint for you what traveling in this country is like. I am amazed at the sites but it is very stressful. Currency that is taken places, an exchange rate that changes every day, animals, not knowing healthy places to eat, restful places to sleep are not always around, clean places to shower, drinking water, and the list goes on. It is always an adventure but not always an easy one! But, I have safely made it to school and grateful for the well wishes and prayers along the way. I have arrived!

Prayer Points~

I am grateful to God for being with us as we traveled.
Praise to a God who is a magnificent Creator!
providing when there was nothing around
Please pray as I continue getting settled into my language home. Another transition!
Pray for my study and my mind to be open to the rules of Kiswahili

The Journey Ahead!

2012-01-03T10:47:00.000+03:00

Click for a Google Map of the Journey

Pray for safety and beautiful sites along the way!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T14:58:00.000+03:00

2012! Can you believe it?! I was reminded just how crazy the time difference from the States it is! Amy and I made it to mid-night but soon went to bed. We realized that when we woke up we could then celebrate it again with those of you in the States! It has been quite a year and I look forward more days ahead worshiping my Creator.

This week has been one of packing, resting, and making sure all is set-up to flow without me for the next five months. It is time. My language journey is here. I am very excited but with any transitions to the unknown there is an element of nervousness. I know with all of my heart that this is my next ministry step. I need to be better equipped to think, talk, and understand Swahili. I am grateful for those of you who specifically funded this "key" to ministry here in Tanzania. There is great power found in a native tongue that unlocks barriers when sharing the truth. It is time.

Ron, Jane Ann, Amy and myself will leave Tuesday the 3rd of January. It will take us two days to head up north east to Lake Victoria. The school is not far from the great Lake of East Africa outside of Musoma. I am grateful these teammates are kind enough to make the journey with me and help me get settled there. Orientation is on Saturday and then classes begin on Monday. There are 18 in my class and then we are broken up into groups less than five. I look forward to meeting new people and exploring a new area! We have lecture, culture classes, and language labs that make up everyday of the week from 8:30am - 3:30pm. This will be a taxing on the mind but I hope to learn a great deal. I will be able to come home for a break the first week of March. Then, return back to school till the 12th of May. Yes, leaving my home and Milo May seems a long way away right now. But, I know it will go fast. I know Milo will be happier here with Janet, Julius, and Amy laying in the sun and making sure the guards behave! However, usually when I have to break away and step into new territory he is right there with me. These are steps that I will make alone even without Milo. It will be very hard to not be in my home and own space for this long but again I know this is important. I am excited and grateful for the opportunity.

2012 will bring new sites, new learning, and more ways to worship a God who wants His name known among the nations. So, once again I take faithful steps to an unknown but hold the hand of the God who comforts.

Prayer Points~

Pray that this time of Language Learning is a time filled with great study and the meeting of new friends.
Pray for our travel there! We get to cross the Serengeti!
Pray for health and safety while at school for these five months
Pray for my heart that has difficulty leaving my home again
May 2012 be a year of obedience and that more may know here in TZ!
Today my sister Christie and brother-in-law Zach begin an exciting journey joining the ranks of being on the front lines as missionaries in another foreign field~ Haiti. As they also make those steps to an exciting unknown journey pray as they leave today. There are no words that explain the pit that forms in the stomach and throat as you say goodbye. Yet, the joy as your heart leaps to explore the desire of your heart "the call" by God to make a difference in a land that so needs to know Him. I am proud and with an empathic heart I pray for them today! Pray as they set out in a new year in a new land to live and work. Pray for our families and friends. Those little faces are the hardest to leave.

Christmas!

2011-12-25T16:54:00.000+03:00

Our Christmas Eve on the Center

Our Tree! It was beautiful and we didn't burn the house down!

Present Time!

I love Skype! I got to watch Shelby, Ethan, Bella and the gang open their gifts from me! The best gift was Bella and Ethan kissing me/computer saying goodbye! It isn't the same as squeezing them but the next best thing being this far away!

Christmas Breakfast with Amy!

Treats for Sampson and Milo too!

Moo-Moo Merry Christmas!

New Tzproject Site!

2011-12-24T10:55:00.002+03:00

CMFI TZ Team is launching a site to keep our friends, family and supporters connect in ways that God is working through current projects. We hope to link up with new faces as well.

Check it out!

Tzproject Site

Isn't it amazing how we all get to be a part of how

God is working within the world?!

Christmas in Tanzania

2011-12-22T21:24:00.002+03:00

Sounds of carolers are not in the air but the sounds at night of the Masai celebrating circumcision are! (Kinda glad it only comes around every seven years!) Many have asked about Christmas here in Tanzania. Here is my attempt at describing our time of celebrating Christ's Birth.

This is probably one of the harder months to be so far away. I miss the sentimental part of the season of snow (miss only at Christmas,) red and green, the twinkling lights. It is in these moments when you realize it isn't bad but that you are a product of your culture. But, as I listen to Christmas Hymns setting my nativity I was reminded of somethings. First, Christmas is not a just a season of the year but lives within because I believe. That doesn't change no matter where I am. Second, I no longer have to work so hard to try to imagine what that night might have been like. Follow me and I will try to show you what I mean. No longer are the circumstances so hard to grasp.

Donkeys are everywhere! They are on the road more than I. They carry things of importance and trek many miles over rough surfaces. This is the main mode of transportation. Living in a country like Tanzania under a Muslim government we know at any moment like Mary and Joseph we could be asked to leave or have to do something that for no other reason is because, well, the familiar "because I said so!" Woman have babies in dark damp mud type places and animals are always often the warm blanket at night. Babies are only wrapped in pieces of scrap cloth if anything at all.

Shepherds on a hillside~ definitely!! Sheep and goats can be seen near and far sprinkled around. Just yesterday on my journey home I saw a little boy with his little lamb draped across his shoulders on the back of his neck. We know the carving well don't we? A little boy with his staff care for his sheep and goats. It is the main passed time and an important job to his family survival no matter how lowly it might be.

Head coverings are essential to your daily outfit out of protection of the sun and some cultural reasons. Many times I remember draping a covering over my head in attempts to play Mary for "my kids" in the states to grasp visually the night of Jesus Birth. I was always very humbled playing that role but more taken back by the children's expressions while taking in the sights. I know the Lord said to become that of a child and more and more I know what He meant. For those expressions as the children looking at Mary are the ones I have when I take the time to consider the scenic views around me. My favorite is the blanket of stars at night that I truly know that of a "Silent Night."

For a bit of a funny here is a shot of a Santa Hat!

Even the secular views of Christmas can be spotted with a good eye!

Many have asked how do Tanzanians celebrate Christmas. For those under aged readers you might want to screen this part before you read it to your children. I only say that because Christmas is not a holiday that is celebrated as a whole in this country since we are under a muslim government. In the States you have many within the western culture who celebrate Christmas even if they do not have a relationship with Jesus. That is not the same among most of the streets of Tanzania. Believers celebrate Christmas but people who do not believe it is sadly just another day. Santa sightings are few. The Tanzanian churches gather no matter the day of the week Christmas might fall on. The church family might share a meal together or they will eat as a family after. If presents are given at all it is usually an outfit to wear for church during the next year. Most gifts are given (if at all) are opened on Boxing Day which is the 26th. One of our national partners explained to me that he was giving a gift to each of his family members that reflected a role/areas that they are gifted in along with words of affirmation about their part within the family. How beautiful! Another church planter told me that his church was challenged to give of something to the church are they are challenged in 2012 to continue to transform their community. Once again I learn a great deal from my brothers and sisters here in Tanzania.

We on the center do have fun in celebrating this month! Amy the intern and I have been intentional about somethings to share in during this time. I love baking Christmas Yummies! And I also miss my nieces and nephew a great deal. Not to replace but to fill that spot in my heart we invited Janet's (our house helper) kids over for a special day of baking! Meghan also joined us and we had a wonderful and fun day! I was not sure how things were going to turn out being here but we actually did very well with our sugar cookies, peanut butter balls, toffee, caramels, choc. dipped nuts, and fudge!

Corrin was very serious about her job of decorating. The funny part was the cookie cutter choices! When you are with kids who have never done this before you end up with shamrocks, hearts, and the United States Christmas Cookies!

Corey needed a break and lots of additional things to do for the day! He is a very busy boy!! Julius was cute with him and was happy to take him on a center tour!

Our Yummies!

in honor of my grandma I think I finally got the caramels right this year. And a good year for it! It was comforting for me to make, eat, and to share this meaningful treat!

Our Tree

We do make some decorations happen and use whatever we can!

Prayer Points~

I have a happy heart but I do miss family and friends.
As I look around at the death, disease, and destruction here in my corner of the world. I know why I must be here. It does not even compare to the way God must have looked over this world to know that Jesus had to come. Jesus was born and all over the world we celebrate! We celebrate and continue to glorify Him so that more may know the glorious riches that are to come.

Merry Christmas!

Graduation of December 2011

2011-12-19T20:56:00.000+03:00

It is hard to believe that this time last year I celebrated a graduation then got on a plane for the States! How time flies when you are having fun! Friday we celebrated with another group of Church Planting Families. It is always a day filled with many emotions! A bit of relief that we got everything done we needed to for training and excitement as we send another group to make a difference in their village areas. But, there is always a hint of sadness about saying goodbye to "our kids." This year I had a partner (Amy) who joined me with those feelings!

The day began with rehearsal. We also handed the parents the outfits that many of my sewing friends at PCC made for the occasion along with flip flops that the youth decorated at VBS. These outfits given to the kids by their parents helps them to know that today is a special day. Many of these children have never owned a brand new outfit. Many of the CMF staff were busy with preparations and making the meal. The day was sunny and beautiful!!

As the service began there is always a time of greeting. I reinforced how it was a joy to be able to teach them and their children. How they have been a great group of students but now I bless them that they are now the teachers. The kids shared their songs, memory verses, and just plum cuteness! It is always a small taste of what the kids have enjoyed and learned over the four months. But, enjoyable for the crowd to experience. The parents always share words, music, and often a tribal dance! This group did not let us down as they shared their tribal dance that lasted ever bit of 20mins and I can guarantee you that there is no exercise dvd to beat it! Wow! But, it is always moving to watch vessels that you have poured truth into then express joy in yet another tribal tongue.

Todd with Lomayani bring a charge for the students as they return to their village areas as "lights on a hill." The spiritual warfare is great and the work to do here is still vast. But, we pray that as we release these students to expand the kingdom they will have courage as they bring truth.

The kids were given a lay, their certificate, and a complied portfolio of their class work, and a card from Mrs. Klay's Class at Clarks Creek. They were so very excited!! They were proud of their outfits, their certificates, and amazed as they turned the pages of their work like a fascinating book to be explored!

We had a big party with a meal, cake, and lots of fellowship! I am always amazed and touched by my Tanzanian Friends. Our CMF workers always enjoy the day and celebrating with the families. There is always a buzz about the day!! Join us as we thank God for the opportunity to invest in these lives and a blessing as they now "go" to the far reaches of our land!

Church Planter Training Graduates of December 2011

2011-12-19T20:19:00.001+03:00

Families: Zacharia, Yusph, Yohana, and Arobogast

Prayer Points~

Pray as these families return to their village areas that they will now apply what they have learned to transform their communities in the name of Christ.

Why I do what I do!

2011-12-19T20:11:00.000+03:00

2011-12-19T12:52:00.001+03:00

The Lord keeps his promise...

December E-Newsletter

2011-12-17T21:46:00.002+03:00

You can click on this link to view my December E-News
http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=824b4b0455c08b42cdd1d53da&id=416f230b23

Pre-Primary Teacher Training in Matale

2011-12-16T17:17:00.001+03:00

We packed up the car again and headed to Enkeywa before the sun had even hit the horizon. As we headed passed Mt. Meru we could see the outline of Kili. She likes to hide behind the clouds ~ a shy mountain she is.

To the left is Amy my apprentice (intern.) She took the prep and most materials on as her ministry project. She worked very hard to prepare these material bags to give to the teacher who came to the training. The centers and activities I wrote depended mostly on the Earth and trash as resources. There were a few materials needed so Amy prepped them to have in their bags.

Solomon is so kind to translate for us and he is a very good translator! He copies everything down the mimicking my movements. He is alway very keen on making sure the people understand within cultural means.

Our first session concentrated on encouragement and the question "why be a teacher?" It was important for me to hear their stories of why they were teachers and to encourage them in it. Teachers here are kind of a lowly occupation especially out in the bush. Little to no training, no resources/curriculum, and rarely paid are teachers in Tanzania. Helping them to see and be encouraged about how important they are is a huge hurdle. Hearing their stories is always a joy and moving time. These teachers know it is important to teach but more often than not they have not even been through elementary school. They have no materials or resources but it is my goal to help them use the world around them as their classroom.

Next we cursed through the morning reviewing "what a teacher is." This helped us as we try to think outside the box and use what is around us as our resource. Many of these classrooms have 100s of kids in them who need to be taught and shown the love of Jesus.

The afternoon was the "how to be a teacher." We began with lessons on the importance of teaching ABCs. Above we used rocks in games and to display the ABCs in a classroom.

Our first Training Class

Naserian came to visit us while we were out there for the training wearing her outfit that the ladies at PCC made for her!

Prayer Points~

Pray for these teachers as they work in the Matale area. Pray that they begin to implement these ideas into their classroom. Pray for me as I begin to think about what we can do to help them. This is a small step in a very BIG project!

Family Moments

2011-12-13T21:43:00.000+03:00

Family of Abrogogast

This is one of the family afternoons that we put together to implement some of the family/marriage lessons during the second half of training. We used finger paint and created a collage of praise and thanksgiving. Then we make a banner to hang for graduation!

The families then had a corn hole tournament. Ron made a corn hole set and it is the rave of the center! Everyone played and had a great time!

Family of Zacharia

Family of Yusuph

Yohana and Elizabeti

Prayer Point~

these families are precious. They have learned a lot and I pray that they will take what they have learned and find ways to share truth, love, and grace to their villages.

Baraka, our only boy.

2011-12-13T20:54:00.001+03:00

Isn't he gorgeous! And now seeing all seven of "my kids" won't you agree that I have the best job!? Baraka's name means blessing and he is indeed. He is our only boy in the group and fights Upendo for the title of youngest (not including the baby.) Baraka has the most amazing eyes. I know my hood is hiding one but I just love the picture. This is how Baraka has spent a lot of classroom time~ on my back! He is the only child and you can tell even in African children! What I mean by that is he has a bit more trouble with attachment than the other kids. Being on my back was something of great comfort for the little guy!

Prayer Points~

I pray that Baraka lives to his name and casts great Blessing in the hearts of many who live in Tanzania. May he grow to be a god-fearing man.

Upendo ~ the boss!

2011-12-13T20:38:00.001+03:00

Upendo is over 1yrs old but not quite 2 yet. She is the older sister to the new little baby "Happy." Yes, they are close in age and that is how they roll here in Tanzania! But, the momma does have her hands full! Upendo means love and she holds up to her name but she is also a little spit-fire! She is the boss of the class indeed. She is a hoot but definitely knows who she wants, what she wants, and everything in between! However, yesterday she made my day. This little thing who now has gotten the hang of not only walking but running ran up to be when I walked into class. I have been working so hard on lessons and trainings that I haven't been in the classroom for a bit. She ran right up to me very excited to see me for a kiss on the forehead. I often greet the young ones this way. She has been known on many occasions to go about her little business and not care about others or greeting. But, she has gotten the hang of it and warmed my heart on Monday! A little bit of Love!

Prayer Points~

Pray that this little one won't loose her fire for life. That the Lord uses it in a mighty way to make a difference in this dry and dusty land!

Children's CHE Week

2011-12-13T20:22:00.001+03:00

We had our Children's Community Health Evangelism Week! Elinipa is always gracious to come and help Olais teach this week with the kids. We study the story of the Good Samaritan and combine health and safety teachings the kids should know. This is always an important time but fun learning for us!

The lessons consisted of fire safety, dressing wounds, caring for sick younger children, skin cleanliness, road safety, and what to do when one sees a snake. These small lessons of prevention seem small but can be life saving for these young faces.

Olais with his new bike is able to do a road safety exercise!

Prayer Points~

Pray that these lessons remain in their mind and heart as they get ready to venture back to their village areas!

Meghan Carter the Leading Lady!

2011-12-12T20:33:00.001+03:00

Meghan (the daughter of my teammates) began school at an international day school this year after homeschooling most of her life. She has had a great year! The upper primary students at her school put on a musical and Meghan had the leading role. The musical was Sheherazade and she was Sheherazade! Meghan did a wonderful job and we were sitting front and center cheering her on! It was a very enjoyable evening!

Todd, Tami, Savannah, Wes and Meghan Carter

Amy, Savannah, me, Sarah, Meghan, and two of her friends

Thankful for my
TZ Fam!

Meet Monika!

2011-12-12T20:08:00.000+03:00

Meet our Monika! She is the lovely older sister of Tezeria. She is probably around the age of 6 or 7years old. As we begin getting ready for graduation I was looking at pictures from our first days of class. Monika's eyes sagged a great deal. I am not sure if it was out of shyness, malnutrition, or lack of confidence. But, all of those things are absolutely not the case any more! Monika's eyes now sparkle! She now has the confidence in learning and has grasped so much in her time with us. She rarely spoke up and struggled a great deal in the beginning with learning especially the alphabet. She proudly can say the ABCs write them and can write her own name. She is very proud of all these things. She smiles with confidence and runs for the classroom with an excitement to life. As you can see she no longer has sad eyes but ones that sparkle!

Prayer Points~
Pray for my dear Monkia! That her eyes sparkle always with the joy of the Lord. That she remembers what she has learned with us and knows that she can learn. Pray that she remains strong in the truths learned and the love she experiences.

The Lord Provides

2011-12-12T11:40:00.001+03:00

http://www.lookoutmag.com/articles/lessonlife.asp

Our Priska

2011-12-09T14:17:00.001+03:00

Our Priska has an amazing smile. The first few weeks

she was so very quiet and hesitant to answer questions.

Now the transformation has begun and our Priska is learning

so very much. She is smart and is the first to answer.

Priska is actually the sister of one our church planters. She

now lives with them and helps with their first born Baraka.

She loves class and has learned so very much while being here.

Pray for this delightful young girl who has a love of the Lord and
a love of learning.

Alter Moments

2011-12-06T20:16:00.001+03:00

After the sherehe we ventured further to Enkeywa. We joined our friends at Wild Hope's Campsite along James' (church planter) property. We set camp up and began cooking dinner over an open fire before we lost to much daylight. Between the drive through parts of the Rift, a tent, and cooking over the fire among many other things flood thoughts of things I never thought would be in my days work activities! Or did I? But, still there are many moments when I think what if people of the States could see me now! The night falls and this night so did the rain! We ran for our tent in hopes of not being cold and wet for the night. Our tent held up which was also quite a victory! It is so unusually green here! Crops are being planted in hopes of a good harvest. Until this occurs there are still hungry people but as least hope insight. Off in the distance hyenas can be heard as we drifted to sleep.

The morning was spent with tin cups filled with something warm to drink around the fire. Glancing to the right there were five or six ostriches that were cruising through. These sites never get old of God's creation here in Tanzania.

Church in Enkeywa was an amazing time of worship. Naserian was sitting outside the church when we pulled up. She ran to me placing her arms around my waist. We were escorted to the front of the church to sit. This is also one of the reasons for the title of this post. In the Old Testament many of the patriarchs after moments/victories would construct an alter. The mound of rock would be a place of worship~ "a journey marker." To acknowledge God's direction and strength. As I sat in church I suddenly was reminded of the significance of this very site. I did not build an alter but over two years ago I ventured to this ground while on my site assessment trip. While here I felt confident that God was calling me to return to teach of His truths in Tanzania. I looked to the hills and I found peace. As we stood by the footers for the church. I was given my Masai name of Naropeal. There was not enough water to construct the church but that did not keep the people from worship. I also met my friend Momma Rose who gave me my first Masai gift of beads and told me that I would return. This day that seems many many days removed from today. is never far from my heart. A confirming moment within my journey I sat in the front row on Sunday in Enkeywa with Naserian on my lap. My thoughts traced back to that day and once again amazed by God's faithfulness and all that has transpired since. We were greeted and asked to share a word with the church. I shared the significance of returning to this site (now inside the church rather than standing by the footers) through a sea of faces I saw Momma Rose. Her round face with a very broad smile on her face appeared and I knew it was my friend. I was overcome with joy being back in this village area.

James, Solomon and Matteo carried on with service. I watched the apprentices overcome with the depth of worship. James talked about the Sherehe and then asked Naserian to come forward. She left my lap to hold James' hand embarrassed by being up front. She smiled fighting the desire to hide her face like she does when shy. James shared about the program and the difference the efforts would make in the lives of those like Naserian. Tears welled in her eyes but she stood tall. James asked if I would come forward and talked about our relationship. With my hands on Naserian's shoulders there were now many tears between myself and those with me. A very old hunched over woman yelled to the front. As James translated and informed me the woman was Naserian's grandmother. The grandmother said she could not see me very well due to the fact that she is going blind. But, she yelled, "you are now my daughter. I lost but now I receive." I was humbled as this woman graciously gave me what she had~ acceptance. As we filed out of the church the grandmother placed one of her beaded necklaces around my neck. I helped her out of the church and Naserian was on my other side. I realized that even though Naserian had missed the Sherehe God blessed us with a wonderful confirming day. Pictures were taken and rejoicing with my friends new and old took place under the bright blue sky.

Naserian came back to our camp to share lunch and we were able to give her gifts from the Sherehe. She smiled and was thrilled to be with us for the afternoon. The ladies at PCC made her a new dress with a cute hat. The fabric matched a skirt that Marjorie had made for me. She also received the first pair of flip flops that the kids of the Price Hill VBS made. I adore my relationship that I have with this young girl who too wants to be a teacher.

Later in the afternoon we climbed one of the hills that stretches over Enkeywa. It was tough and always more of a challenge in a skirt! But, we were not about to let the guys leave us behind! The sites were beautiful but I had another "alter moment" while climbing. For you to grasp the significance of this moment there is a story that I must tell. I have shared this with very few people but I guess that is about to change. Growing up my Grandpa and Grandma Coulter had a piece of property not far from Lake Manroe. Such fond memories flood my mind of this place. We would hike a great deal around through the woods, along the creek, and up the huge hill in back. I remember several occasions walking the tree line with my grandpa as he pointed to each tree that had a name of each grandkid in birth order. As he would go about mowing I would walk down to the creek. There was a special tree that I liked to sit in along the creek. Hiking along the creek and up the hill I remember pretending that I was navigating through foreign fields as a missionary, Active with my feet but only in my mind would I trace out scenes of missionary journeys that I had heard about in church. While everyone was role playing movies or skipping rocks I was pretending to be a missionary in the depths of nowhere. I would return to the trailer from my ventures, I would find my grandma in the trailer busy in the kitchen. She would always stop to sit with me and ask me about my adventures. She is the only one I ever told about my ventures and what I dreamed. My grandma would listen intently to my stories. I would lay in her lap and she would tickle my back and arms. I liked to call this "spealing." Why I don't know but a term I developed when I was very young. She would also comb my long hair for ticks but listened as I uncovered desires of my heart. I remember when I was finished she would never comment specifically on my pretend hiking ventures but would look me in the eye cupping my face in her hands with a smile and say, "my angel." As I hiked up this mountain in the middle of nowhere my thoughts went to my childhood hiking days and how the active steps were no longer a pretend journey. Tears glistened as I would give anything to tell my grandma of my adventures. The distance is no longer the only barrier for my grandma is traveling down the later stages of Alzheimer's. Slowly we have had to say goodbye in different ways for a long time. I would love to be near her but I know she would look at me if she could and say, "my angel~ go you are who you desired to be." She believed in me and I will always love her no matter how far a part we are. Thank you for venturing down memory lane with me for this weekend was special. A deep encouragement to the desires of my heart and dreams of a young girl that at times wasn't sure could be. God keeps His promises and on this journey of faithfulness I am grateful for reminders such as these that keep you along the path even in the most difficult of times!

The hike continues from one village to the next announcing like angels, "Glory to God!"

Prayer Points~

We rejoice in the victory in Jesus that this land once captive by witch doctors is now being penetrated by light. We pray that this area will worship the one true God. The presence of witch craft is something to be aware and mindful. But, we continue to pray in Jesus Name that its presence will be no more.
I am preparing this week to return to Enkeywa again on Saturday for the first training of pre-priamry teachers in Matale. Amy, Olais, and I will make the trip Sat. and return Sunday.
Pray for my family. My grandma is dear to all of us and it is difficult to watch the disease take over. Pray for me as it is hard to be so far away at times.

Sherehe for the Widow and Orphan Project

2011-12-06T19:33:00.001+03:00

Have you ever had the chance to look into a child's face and read the story he/she has to tell? Ndasat is a twelve year old young girl with a story to share. One eye is filled with tears of the parents that she has loved and lost. She is now trying to find her way living with her brother and sister. The days are filled with hard work with little hope of provisions or schooling. However, if you look a little closer one eye is filled with a tear overflowing with the happiness she now has as one in the Widow and Orphan Project. As Ndasat was told that she would be a part of this program of training and school sponsorship this is the picture that was taken. Tears of no longer being forgotten and being instilled with hope. What a picture! What a story!

Ndasat would like to be a teacher. This project will provide needed hygiene items, CHE training, along with Bible teaching. Though this is called a project it is filled with many faces like who are now given hope!

This project was kicked off with a Sherehe (celebration) on Saturday. The community, government, and a few CMF teammates gathered to kick things off! The day was filled with singing, cultural dances, speeches, the cutting of the ribbon to the office building, and a meal of celebration. The day was all about kids which is a rare event in most tribal cultures. Heather was the CMF lead on kicking things off along with Sarah one of our apprentices. The day was a great day to celebrate.

Naserian who you have heard in previous posts of being my Masai Daughter who was an initial "face" to the project. She is one of the first to be sponsored. I was sad because she was unable to be a part of the day. She was in Enkeywa with extended relatives for school break. Since Enkeywa was to site of our camp over the weekend I held out hope that I would see her before the weekend was over.

Prayer Points~

Pray for the 130 orphans that fill the initial project and their future sponsors. A relationship that is one of great blessing for both the sender and receiver.
Pray as Heather continues to work on details and the paper work. Along with Joseph who is the national leader and visionary for those in most need in the community.
I am working on lessons that will be shared on the project days that combine CHE Lessons with Bible Stories. I am trying to get a few done before I leave for Language School.

The Promise

2011-12-05T17:38:00.001+03:00

Click on the site below to view the The Lookout.

The Life and Lesson
www.lookoutmag.com/articles/lessonlife.asp

Another Bush Trip

2011-12-02T18:53:00.001+03:00

Amy here has pulled out her panga so that we are fully equipped on our next Bush Trip. We leave in the morning (Saturday.) I passed my refresher changing the tire course with flying colors! We have the car loaded with the tents and needed supplies. The food in its box to load in the morning and the GPS in my hand.

We will go to support and help with Widow Orphan Project then head to Enkeywa where we will meet a friend to set up camp. Church on Sunday will be shared with our Masai brother and sisters. A time to celebrate Sarah's time as an apprentice and I will observe a preschool on Monday before we trek back home.

Please pray for our safety, strength, and wisdom venture Sat. - Monday in the Bush.

Display of Artwork

2011-12-02T18:42:00.001+03:00

I just love hearing from "my kids" of the States! I try to display either on the frig or in my room the artwork of encouragement from my youngest supporters! I do treasure these when they fill my inbox and enjoy very much looking at them daily. They always bring a smile to my face. Some of the contents has even helped us decorate for Christmas!

May the obedient hearts of both young and old help this country be one that praises the Creator God!

The after Thanksgiving!

2011-12-02T18:20:00.001+03:00

We gathered a few days later but all the yummy foods were present. Friends like family pitched in with a Turkey and everything!! Before digging in we had a time of reflection of what we were grateful for in the last year.

Wes and Leyton

Meghan and Sianna

Me and Savannah

I was the pie girl!

I haven't been this full since I left the States!

It was so good and good to be together!

Prayer Points~

On this journey I am grateful for the encouragement and support that I receive from you all!
I am grateful for a call to share the good news that sustains on the good days along with the harder ones.

Happy

2011-12-02T18:05:00.001+03:00

Happy was born just before the break. She lives up to her name and is a Happy little girl. She had begun responding when we talk to her with smiles and sounds. We enjoy holding her and mom is very happy for us to do so. With Happy's older sister maybe being 2 years old this momma is hopping!

Happy got to star as baby Jesus being presented to Anna and Simeon on Monday. Happy played her role very well and added a live" aww" to the experience as they prayed the blessing over this sweet little baby.

Prayer Points~

Pray that Happy grows to be a woman of God who makes a difference in her village area all the days of her life.

"The Blessing"

2011-11-28T22:29:00.001+03:00

Today was my day to be with the adults. I have written a lesson that helps each family share their culture and rights of passage to partner with exploring how to pass the blessing of knowing Christ to our children. There is a lot to uncover but as always I am amazed how the Spirit works and we are the vessel. There are elements of the Old Testament with Abraham we explore to the arrival of Christ. It was very exciting to unravel these truths with these families.

There is a couple within the class (Yohana and Eliszabeti) who had a young child that is no longer living. They do not have any children now and I knew today would one of the harder lessons. I was sensitive encouraging the group that in their villages there are so many lost children who need to be loved. During the afternoon we began diving into everyday applications along with larger applications of the blessing. As the afternoon went on I became convicted of praying a blessing over the couple with no children. I placed my hands on them and thanked God for their faithfulness. I shared that even though Sara and Elisabeth had to wait upon the Lord their faithfulness was rewarded. I prayed that their descendants would be many as they share the blessing with all those in their area. As I spoke these words from the back I could see tears streaming down both of their faces. The class surrounded them in care and prayer. I prayed for a child and that all fears would be cast aside. This was a very special time and I ask that you keep praying for heart of faithfulness and blessings as they share their faith.

To close the class they acted out the story of Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus in the temple. They were to put the story in their context. Simeon's blessing was to be written by the entire class. All the kids and I waited for their performance of the passage in the banda outside. They used the Banda as their church. They all came out and took their places. Singing began as church was started. Mary, Joseph, and Jesus the new baby born came from the classroom door venturing to church. Singing remained and the baby was presented at the door held in high regard. The baby was presented to Anna and Simeon. As the blessing was said, prayers echoed in the background, and even through in the different language tears welled in my eyes. The passion and conviction that they were praying over this child was well ~ special. It was heartfelt and true. Scripture was read and singing rang all across the center. (I have tried to upload the video taken but I can't get it to take.)

I am not sure who continues to teach who more around here but I know one thing for sure that today was indeed a blessing.

Prayer Points~

Pray for these parents that they will be strong in their faith and strong to share it one a daily basis with their children! Arobogast and Diana; Yusuph and Jennifer; Yohana and Elizabeti; Zakaria and Neema
Pray for Yohana and Elizabeti may they have a child who lives on this side of Heaven.

Meet Tezeria

2011-11-28T18:18:00.001+03:00

What a doll right?! Tezeria is probably about two years old. Today she had to be the one to introduce you to because we had a HUGE break through! We have been working on her ability to go to the choo (bathroom!) This has been a rough go. The first time I tried to take her she cried and was terrified to go for fear of falling in. Who can blame her, really, her going on the floor was no picnic either! I sat in the not so pleasant choo for over 30mins the first time with tears streaming down her face. My heart wanted to melt but I was assuring her the entire time that I wouldn't leave her and that she could do this. The breakthrough began because she finally went. However, the challenge then was that she wouldn't tell us when she needed to go. Swahili lessons came in to play. The child was very quiet didn't say much in the beginning. So, every 30mins or so we would take her out there to go. She became more comfortable but we had to be on our "A" game about making sure we took her. Some moms out there can relate I am sure! The best part about this cutie is that she lights up like a Christmas Tree and loves for Amy and I to hold her. And, today (break through day) she came up and kept patting Amy (my intern.) Amy said, "do you have to go to the choo (this is the English version?!) I know, I know its the little things! But, that was quite a victory for us. Tezeria is learning a great deal. She repeats everything that we say! She really likes to sit on your lap to read. She runs and gets so excited when she sees us coming up the road. It truly is amazing and heart warming to watch these little personalities begin to shine as they develop a love for learning.

Prayer Points~

Pray for sweet energetic Tezeria that she grows into a wonderful woman of God!

The Call

2011-11-28T17:57:00.001+03:00

Click on the site below to view the The Lookout.

I have the privilege of sharing in the Life Lesson section this month.

http://www.lookoutmag.com/articles/lessonlife.asp

A Time of Thanksgiving in Katesh

2011-11-26T19:27:00.001+03:00

Over Thanksgiving Week we headed south leaving Mt. Meru and heading towards Mt. Hanang. Katesh is a village that rests below the third tallest mountain in Tanzania. Lulu is our National Church Planter and CHE partner who lives within this area. He has a lovely family that we were able to meet and spend time with while within the area. What a blessing it was to see Lulu in his element. He is gifted and called by God to minister to his people and the people groups who live around him.

We were there to encourage some of the CHE projects in the area. I was also there to explore additional people groups and schools. Seeing another part of the country is always an adventure. The short rains have come to the area so things are green which is always lovely to see along the hillsides. The first night Amy and I climbed on top of the car for an amazing star show!

For fun Lulu let me ride with him on his pikipiki!
I have always wanted to ride one. Lulu is a very good driver and I knew he would take good care of me! I was unsure how I was going to pull it off in a skirt but I did!

Here are the kids of the school that we visited. I have such a difficult time describing the magnitude of work here to do in the areas of education. Martin was a man who opened the school. He is a man of God and has a passion to educated and minister to these kids. Which is very rare to find. I hope that we can partner in the coming year. When the children begin to sing it always brings tears to my eyes. The voices ringing pull at my heart strings of the young minds that need to be invested in here in TZ!

Here are some of the goats of the CHE project in the village. We helped purchase a group of goats. They then begin to have babies and the project is to keep one and give one and so on. This helps build stock.

This was one of our tables of Thanks. My wise Grand-brother Bob wrote on my facebook that "Thanksgiving is not a menu, it is a state of heart through an eating experience." I could not have put my Thanksgiving experience this year in better terms. I am grateful for my time of Thanksgiving with the believers around Mt. Hanang but these words were good for my heart to read again.

One thing is for sure the menu was not that of what one might think of when you sit down at a Thanksgiving Table. This is no turkey to the left but beef with bone. My mouth waters at the thought of pumpkin persimmon pie but the menu was at the bottom of thoughts as I watched with a humble spirit as the meal was shared. I am truly blessed to be of encouragement to my brother and sisters.

This is the home of one of our church planters and where we were on actual Thanksgiving Day. We arrived early in the morning expecting to have chai encourage and be on our way back to Arusha. We should always know that these visits are always all day affairs with our lovely friends. These visits mean so much to them and they always bring out their best. It is always a very humbling experience to be served in this way when they have so little.

This lovely lady Neema my friends is an inspiration. She is the one who lost her husband to cancer while I was on furlough. Her and her husband are church planters in the area and now she carries on the work with Samweli which is the house where we were. The three of them continue as faithful workers in their village area. Neema has such a joyous spirit and her husband through his death and Christian Funeral has made a huge impact in the area. We were all visiting when the rooster that had been pinned in the corner was carried off to become our Thanksgiving Dinner. We then knew we were in for the day visit! I followed the chicken and the women for preparation and fellowship. Neema and I are sitting in the cook house. Below are the kids helping to clean the rice before it is cooked and then there is ALL the chicken being cooked. I was blessed with the neck on my plate. Insert the above phrase: "its not about the menu, but the state of heart during the eating experience. My heart was there but man my stomach didn't want to be! Many of you experienced indigestion but we won't go into what I experienced!

I will get back to the "state of heart" part! Meet Emmanuel a beautiful brand new baby who became little friend.

the guys giving me a teaching stick!

November E-Newsletter

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Click on the underlined link to view my November E-Newsletter to supporters, faithful prayer warriors, and interested parties~ Karibuni Sana!

http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=824b4b0455c08b42cdd1d53da&id=d7ea1183fc

"Let me introduce you!"

2011-11-17T20:56:00.001+03:00

Many of you have been waiting for these posts where I introduce each of the kids within the class on the Training Center. I now know their personalities more, the things they have learned so far, and their stories. So without further-a-due here is the eldest in the class Anastazia (Anna.) She is 8 yrs old and the leader within the group. She is a great helper and very good with the little ones. Anna is very eager to learn and picks up everything like a sponge. She has learned her ABC's and now can write her own name. Her face lights up like a Christmas Tree when she seems Amy or myself. Those running hugs are the best. As you can see she has a beautiful smile and cheerful disposition!

Prayer Points~

Today pray for Anna that she grows into a woman after God's own heart. That she remembers her love of learning and holds the truths of scripture in her heart. I pray for her husband one day that she will marry at a good age to one who believes in God. May she be a vessel that penetrates her village area with God's bright light the day she returns home through adulthood.

Church Forum on the banks of the Indian Ocean

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CMFI Church Catalyst division (fancy wording for the church planting teams) held a Church Planting Form that took place on the coast of Kenya. Church Planting teams from all over the world met up with our CMFI home office leader David Giles. The Forum began every morning with worship and devotional thoughts. Charles Wesley's words written in 1740 have never quite penetrated my heart like they did that first morning. When my fellow missionary friends and I sang,

O for a thousand tongues to sing

My great Redeemer’s praise,

The glories of my God and King,

The triumphs of His grace!

My gracious Master and my God,

Assist me to proclaim,

To spread through all the earth abroad

The honors of Thy name.

Jesus! the name that charms our fears,

That bids our sorrows cease;

’Tis music in the sinner’s ears,

’Tis life, and health, and peace.

Knowing that each of us represented at least one other tongue if not more was a tearful moment for many. Tears of joy knowing the praises of truth that are sung in so many many tongues! We then took turns giving shouts of praise in our second or third languages! Can you hear it? Praise the Lord! Bwana SiFi We! Misisi Yesu! Wow! Heaven will be glorious my friends! Then, with a voice of comfort Tim Ross began sharing with us. Tim was a missionary in Kenya who now serves as a minister in the States. He began with a story that reflected the loneliness that can come sometimes as missionaries. He said that one of the most encouraging things that his family received while on the field was a small framed verse from 1 Thess. 1: 1-3. He began reading,

"We always thank God for

all of you and continually mention you

in our prayers. We remember before our God

and Father you work produced by faith, your labor

prompted by love and your endurance inspired by hope in

our Lord Jesus Christ."

More tears were glistening as we heard from someone who was been in our shoes reciting this verse as a suave over our souls. Tim passed out a gift and it was the framed verse to have sitting somewhere to remember. Holding the verse in our hands he began to say that on behalf of our loved ones in the States and a God that loves us that we are not forgotten, we are prayed for, and that we are a part of a great work. All of these things are things that we know but labors on the field we do not always have the fellowship of others or times of instruction by someone in our national tongue. The picture that I am trying to paint is not one for you to take pity. But, to understand how moments like this are so very treasured and meaningful. We do sing the praise of our God and Creator in tongues that are not of our own ~ which is a gift! The challenge on the field is to be diligent about finding ways to grow and worship our God and creator. We do not have as many of the things provided like in the States. The Spirit of our Lord Jesus and our labor of love are helping that to occur in our areas of influence on the foreign field. Tim's words were encouraging and challenging as we began each day together.

We would then transition to Church Planting discussion points. One would share in various of ways different fields were operating or tools used. It was good discussion and brainstorming for the work at hand. My favorite is always getting to see my friends who serve in various places. My co-workers who serve in fields much like my own and then those places that are very different. But, they are my friends who know what serving in missions is like. The joys and sorrows that we find so far away from our "home culture." Meeting new friends is also a joy! Brainstorming together is a great help but being able to fellowship together is a gift! We enjoyed the time at the Beach which is always a restful place for the soul!

Our time together was a gift!

Prayer Points~

We are grateful for safety in traveling during this slightly sensitive time in East Africa.
Grateful to be with friends and gain insight at the Forum
Continually pray for our work produced by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ!!

How many Books do you have?

2011-11-04T19:04:00.002+03:00

Regardless of my age I have always been a lover of Children's Books. An interesting story filled with well illustrated pages usually found its way to my bookshelf. I remember packing up my office and house preparing for my Tanzania departure. I quickly realized with each box how many books I had in my possession. Not only did I collect the books but I grew to have a deep desire to write a few children's books of my own. My time here in Tanzania has spurred that passion even further. No longer do I have a wall of bookshelves for the books to grow in number. But, a desire for more children to hold and read a book like "my kids" are here in this post. The children's books that you find here in Tanzania if any are illustrated with harsh looking pictures of violence and not age appropriate stories for children. But, even the terrible books are hard to find here. I keep asking the Lord for wisdom and guidance for how I can do my part so there can be more pictures like these in Tanzania.

The Golden Glows a vibrant and active seniors ministry a part of Plainfield Christian Church took on the task of filling our bookshelves for the school at the Training Center. I was able to visit and share about the ministry and while I was in the States they collected children's books for me to bring to Tanzania. I even have books collected to bring for other trips there were so many collected for the kids! Most of "my kids" at the Training Center have never opened a book before especially one with such vibrant colors and pictures. We had a book party on the lawn of the Training Center. We pulled out some of the new books that I brought looked them over and stocked the shelves of the classroom. The joy is that many of the Golden Glows watched me grow up. They told me stories and shared stories of the scriptures.

Thank you for helping me to share stories with "my kids" here in Tanzania! Even though there is an ocean that separates us. Being the sentimental person that I am it is moments like these when you all seem so very close. Thank you for blessing our students in this way. They love the books and so do I. Maybe one day the count of our collected books written in English and Kiswahili will be one or two by Wendy Wagoner.

Thank you for our library!

Prayer Points~

All of the students have returned and finished their first week back in training!
We are relieved from sitting for long periods of time and grateful for the Field Team Meetings to be complete! It looks like an exciting year ahead here in TZ!
Several of us on the team leave for meeting in Kenya next week.

Olais and his Bike!

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Olais (who is our national teacher for the children here with their families for church planter training) lives up the hill a ways from school. It takes him about 2hrs one direction walking to the Center. I knew that this was difficult for Olais and I also was looking for a way to bless him in his work. With Tami's help we decided that it would be great if we could help Olais with a bike for transportation. I am grateful that when the need was expressed to the Pathfinders Sunday School Class at Calvary in Longmont CO they jumped to the challenge of blessing us with the funds to be

able to bless Olais and our classroom in this way. Olais is able to get to work quicker and is extremely grateful to receive this bike. He is very proud of his bike and blessed by brothers and sisters in Christ. This is another moment for me of how wonderful it is to be a part of the global body of Christ! Thank you Pathfinders for being a giving group of people to bless the great work that God is doing here in Tanzania. It may look like just a bike. But, believe me "just" is not in our Swahili vocab here. It is a great tool of encouragement and a vehicle for ministry!

Thank you Pathfinders!

Prayer Points~

We are grateful that all the families have returned for the second half of training. I even got to have the newest member of the class Happy for the morning! Happy is the baby who was born shortly before break occurred. Pray for the second half of training that the students will continue to gain a great deal from the knowledge provided.
Our team will be in Field Team Meetings this week. Pray that this is a time of unity for our team as we examine our ministry and brainstorm for the future.

2011-10-29T17:52:00.001+03:00

The students arrive back today. We look forward to their stories of home. I also look forward to the assessment of what the kids have retained while being at home.

With the students gone I take advantage of the quiet that falls on the Center. I have been busy reading and writing curriculum for upcoming trainings and lessons. I had no idea that my love for writing would come in quite so handy. I am sure that God has always known. I am not a pro by any stretch. But, the need is great here in Tanzania. There are so few books and not very good curriculum. I continue to study the culture so that I can write curric. that teach valuable lessons, biblical truths, with minimal resources in an easy format for Tanzanians to use. The job is very big but I continue to pray for wisdom. I keep learning and soaking in what's around me. I will keep you posted on the process.

I now will take turns introducing you to each of our students one by one. Check back to see the beautiful faces of our class.

Prayer Points~

this week we have Field Team Meetings. Please pray as we meet Wed, Thurs, Friday and brainstorm the future.
pray as we begin the second half of training.

Milo the Missionary Dog gets a new Africa Bed!

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2011-10-21T09:57:00.000+03:00

The harvest is plentiful....

Welcome to the Boma!

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Greetings friends and karibu sana to my boma. It would truly make my day for you to come to my house. I would take you on a little tour and then we could sit down to have a cup of coffee n chat! I hope one day to have some of you for a visit but till then this blog post will just have to do. For those who will never get to make the long plane ride the slide show now available is a tour of my house. It feels very much like home and many additional homey touches have been made since being back in Tanzania. I am grateful to so many who have been a part of blessing my boma. Many kind gifts given to me or items to help be remembered. Pictures colored by my niece Shelby or drawings from kids of PCC. Maybe you helped pack or graciously hauled the bags into the airport. I am also thankful to my dear friend Deanna and her helpers who made my curtains and bedspread. Those things have all really made my home here a home constructed with TLC. With all of my heart I wish the sound of the gate would click and in you would walk. Milo would be the first to greet you followed by a hug from me. But, till then this blog is my hug and the slide show is my way of saying thank you!

A Day of Pre-Primary in the Bush

2011-10-17T14:07:00.000+03:00

Welcome to pre-primary in Masai Land

I have spent a great deal of time and energy praying about the next steps to address the education problem here in Tanzania.

Early learning is really non-existentant here. Based on how we develop there is lot that is lost when a child just begins school at the age of 12 years old. This is and has been a concern of mine. While I was in the

God was working to prepare the soil for seed. One of our area church planter leaders and govt. leader saw what the kids had learned while on the center. He wanted to send his kids to board and go to school here. That was not a good option but as a result each church now has a preschool meeting in the area during the week. They have found the meeting place, people willing to teach, and they have seen how important it is. Most of the prep work is done.

I ventured to one of the schools to observe and experience what they are doing. I am preparing for a training seminar for these teachers. Bless their hearts they have no material to work with, only the Earth as a resource, and most of them are barely educated themselves. So a clean slate is a good slate to work with and a scary one as well! They do want to learn so bad both young and old. Our first stop was to the cook house. The preschool is given Ugi. This is the same Ugi that one of our CHE groups have made and the funding possible by IDES. I tried it for the first time and it is kinda like a very bland and watered down oatmeal. But the mixture is full of nutrients and needed protein.

This group of kids walked up the hill to retrieve the talk board which is the only resource available to the class. There are 40 kids present there is a possibility of 80. They squeeze together on wooden logs that serve like benches. This mud dung hut that they gather around probably is not bigger than most of your bathrooms.

The teacher is a young Masai Man. He is willing but repeats over and over again how they are in need of training.

My head is spinning as I sit among these young faces. Core learning can occur. I know it can. I know that building blocks of education are so vital for them and the spiritual growth that can occur by being taught stories from the Bible. The curriculum that I put together and wrote is swirling around in my head as to the adjustments I would have to make for it to be taken to the Bush. My friends there is nothing but the soil around us to use. It is a challenge for me to keep being creative because I know it can be done. It is my desire for the learning to be culturally relevant. The additional challenge is because of the lack of resources most teachers do not teach in a way for meaning to be grasped it is by memorization. Memory is important but it is not the only way to teach. A training has been set to gather with these teachers. The difficulty is teaching them first then teaching them how to teach. The important part is that they are willing. Please keep praying as I develop curriculum and working on the training session. It will be important to teach a few key things for them to work on while I am at language school. Then, I can follow up and grow from there when I return.

Yes, a goat found things so interesting that he to came to class and then drank my Chai!

We worked on counting while I was there.

This young girl has a string of plant and pop tops as a counting tool. We are creative with what we have!

This image keeps me up at night, gives me reason to work, and casts hope for the future! These children have nothing but a heart to learn. There minds are full and empty all at the same time. God is moving and I am grateful to be a part. Please pray that God will continue to give me wisdom about how to lay a foundation for learning~

ABC's, 123's, Health, etc. but most importantly stories from the Scriptures!

My kids are waiting!

Milo is busy as well!

2011-10-10T10:14:00.000+03:00

Many of my young readers enjoy hearing the tails of Milo the MD (Missionary Dog) on this journey. Milo enjoys being back in Africa where he guards the Boma, plays with Sampson, helps Julius, gives me lots of TLC, and chases some of the workers! Last week Milo was very busy helping Julius with the construction of our water catchment tank. Gutters were put on my house and then they will drain into the tank in the back. This is so when it rains it rolls from the roof to the gutters then into the tanks. There is faucet at the bottom of the tank for us to use the water! Most all the buildings on the center can catch the rain!

Milo was busy helping Julius mix the cement needed to construct the tank. Jackson is the fundi (worker) who came to build the tank. With saw dust and cement the artwork began to take shape. It is marvelous how they make it work. It was almost like watching a giant pot on a potter's wheel. We must do what we can in all areas to make sure that we utilize what we have to produce water. We are thankful that the past several nights have brought rain. We pray that the short rains have come and will replenish this sun scorched land.

Prayer Points~

We have reached our break point in training. Pray for safety for the students going home and then returning in three weeks. Pray as they return to their families and villages that they will remember what they have learned and begin to lay a foundation for sharing the knowledge within their areas.
I am busy studying and writing curric. to use. Most of it includes Bible Stories written in a way that is simple to understand and easily taught by my Tanzanian friends. Hopefully the curric. that I put together along with the additional and improved Bible curric. will be given to pre-primary schools now started in the churches in Masai Land.
I unfortunately burned parts of my leg with boiling water. The pain is now very manageable thanks to a team mate who has a friend that makes burn cream. Please pray for me to be wise in caring for the broken blisters and the healing that no infection sets in.

The Global Body of Christ

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Take a trip with me!? You are always welcome but the physical form of a trip is not what I mean within this journey of words. Just as we put on the Armor of God in the morning I ask that before you venture on this journey with me you take a moment and prepare your heart and mind. It is my prayer as I type this entry that it will be a tool to open doors to of your heart for the Lord to work. May you gain an understanding of the Power of the Body of Christ, this time, without leaving your house or packing a bag.

I have included in several entries here lately how IDES (International Disaster Emergency Services) gave us $41,500 so we can provide famine relief and purchase a water pump. IDES a group based in small town within the mid-west has the ability to spread their arms all over the world. We are just a portion of where they have reached and made a Mighty difference in the Name of the Lord. From Indiana (IDES) we fly here (with me) to Tanzania.

Walk with me from the Center just up the hill of Mount Meru you will find a group of Tanzanian women who make up a CHE (Community Health Evangelism) Group. CHE is a format of teaching and training that is done by CMF to train the nationals to asses needs and how to respond to them with an evangelistic goal. These ladies are concerned about the lack of protein in the children's diet within the area. They also have a heart for the orphans. Have a seat on a bucket and these women will tell you their story. But, while your ears are listening your hands are busy

for there is a great work to be done. Making Ugi is the goal. Ugi is a poorage like item that the kids mix and eat the majority of the time. To increase the nutritional value, the ladies will tell you, that they put additional protien and nurtients within the Ugi mixture. It is then a dry mix packaged by hand and sold. The proceeds are to cover the cost but additional funds are to support the growing number of orphans within the village area. The mommas will tell you that they also know that all children who receive this Ugi have a greater chance of having more of the nutrients needed. Because of the funding from IDES we were able to purchase the Ugi needed to supply several schools with a daily meal for several months within the Maasai area. We also purchased Ugi to hand out to the orphan group that WEPA (Women Education Project in Arusha ) organizes. This group of ladies is a short walk back down the hill and just up the road from the Center. The Ugi was taken by truck out to Maasai Land to the Schools. And a load taken just up the road to assist with relief within our village area where we live. If you are keeping up with your map we have now been to IDES in IN.

Landed at the CMFI Center in Tanzania. Walked up the hill to the CHE Womens group. Gone by truck to Maasai Land to the CCCT (this is the name of the registered church in Tanzania that many of our church planters lead) where churches provided Ugi for schools and Maasai Famine Relief (previous blog entry.) Come back by truck where we have gotten an additional load and dropped it off just up the road from the Center at the site where the WEPA ministry takes place. Famine Relief was given in our village area to the widows and elderly of five local village areas (also a previous

blog entry.) Ok, are you keeping up!? The Ugi is ready to distriput to the orphans in the area. But, as the kids gather it is more than just a hand out. In tattered school uniforms they gather with sweet but sometimes shy faces. Eager they come. But, first before anything is given they sing. Oh they sing! Close your eyes for a minute. Can you hear them sing! Poor and tattered with no mom or dad to love them but they sing. There is no course only scripture to prepare you for this humbling sound.

"The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,

because the Lord has anointed me (and you) to proclaim

good news to the poor. He has sent me (and you)

to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim

freedom for the captives and release from

darkness for the prisoners"

Isaiah 61: 1-3

With the sound of the orphan children singing we my friends are not the only ones proclaiming good news to the poor. For the physical faces of poverty before us are teaching the poor areas of

my heart a great many lessons today. We pray yours as well. The children begin to wash their hands as we take our places to serve them a meal of pilau and cabbage. Pilau is a rice mixture with a bit of meat in a curry flavoring. The children enjoy a meal and play together. Prayer and lessons are given before the Ugi is passed out to each child before their departure. Where they go I do not know but in as many ways as we can fill their body, heart, and soul they are fed today.

Hundreds have been fed because of these funds. Young and Old

they have come. Our prayer always is that they are fed
physically and spiritually as they walk many miles with empty stomachs to the distribution spots. Hundreds were given a bag of grain that might last their family a week or two. Kids have been fed everyday in school for months. Orphans given a good meal and take Ugi with them. Many, many mouths but many many souls.

As we walked the dusty roads of these words did you see how many parts of the body where at work. From different parts of world to many tribes of the world! Funds were given not only for relief but because of the CHE ladies we were able to invest in our people who intern help with nutrition intake on a regular basis but out of the fruits of their labor orphans are supported through school and needs. Because of WEPA we are able to know the people to help. Because of IDES we have the funds to help. Because of you I am here to give. Because of the Church Planters needs are met and the love of Jesus is given.

All the parts of God's Global Body are vital to expanding the Kingdom. I know you are tired from the journey but I pray with a humble heart that you are a little more aware of how God is moving in the world and how if you are open He can use all of us to make a Mighty Difference! Ventures like these are happening all over the world because people have willing hearts.

IDES we thank you for your ministry! The partnership you have with us here is a blessing to all the ministries that are alive and working here in Tanzania!

To God be the Glory!

Up, Up, and Away!

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Up, Up, and Away we went Saturday at sunrise on a hot air balloon! Heather (teammate) wanted to surprise her mom and aunt to have a once in a life time venture across a part of East Africa in a hot air balloon. It was Barb (Heather's mom) number one thing to do one her bucket list. They were gracious to extend the invitation to venture with them. It was on my list of 30 things to do before I was 30 list. Even though I am 31 there are just a few more things to cross off. But, I was able to cross another one off this list!

We met at 4:30am to meet our guide. Our launch site was between two of the Safari Parks Terengeri and Lake Manyara. It was raining

when we got up. But as we got to the launch site and waiting anxiously as they prepped the balloon. The wind was a little strong so we waited but soon where on our way. At first when you see the guys on the ground let go as you float in the air is a little wild! I couldn't believe how smooth of a ride it was. It was mighty HOT under that burner shooting in the balloon. It was amazing the view. Truly there are no words. It was like the early scenes of the movie Lion King. Surveying the land of Africa and watching the birds spread their wings flying so peacefully. We could see Lake Manyara and the perfect bomas in a circle.

We saw the Rift Valley as it stretches along the mighty stretch of East Africa. In a short period of time we could stretch out and touch the top of the trees to flying so high that the animals looked like ants.

I recommend everyone do it at least once. I am glad my time was here in East Africa. I love that on this mass journey of serving God in this dry and dusty land there are exciting moments like this. Moments to take advantage of taking in the beauty of God's great creation.

The couple who have begun doing these balloon ventures are from Spain. They have begun attending the Vineyard which is the church we attend when in town. It was an encouragement to them and a true venture to us!

After landing we had breakfast along the side of the Baobab Tree. There is a saying here in Africa about the Baobab. It is said that for some reason God became angry at the tree and decided to turn it upside down. This story is told to explain why the top looks more like the root system than tops. They are mighty trees that stretch throughout this area.

It may not be in a hot air balloon but I challenge you this week to take the time to look around where you live. Take in the beauty of God's Creation!

We serve a Mighty God!

A Big Day! I have a Vehicle in TZ!

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Wheels for Wendy!
That was the talk of many Vacation Bible Schools this past Summer! The wheels have finally been found and purchased!

I am grateful for all of you

who helped make this day happen!

Finding a car here in Tanzania can be quite a journey. By missionaries who have lived here much longer than I along with reliable sources Toyota Land Cruiser is the desired way to go. This is because parts can be found, reliability, and ability to venture in remote places. The vehicle must be duty paid. And you wait to hear about or find flyers with info of who are selling that meets the above. Patience is required and a great deal of prayer. This decision and trying to uncover the right car was very stressful for me and I was very overwhelmed with trying to make a good choice. With the help of my teammates and a national this is the car we found after several test drives.

The vehicle is a 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Many families on the team have a Prodo. It has been kept in good condition and looks to be reliable. Ron, Todd, and Gary along with myself all test drove it to make sure of its condition and to help me with the decision. Tami and Sarah were happy passengers to help as well. Minimal work needs to be done, met budget with the price, and my moral supporters were all in favor!

Rendezvous spot ended up being downtown Arusha on the sidewalk in front of the bank. Where I handed the man the check and got the keys in return. The car had been brought and parked up the street for us to drive away. All the stickers, registration, and road license paper work had to be purchases and filled out. One of our Tanzanian friends helped with that ongoing process. The entire process from test driving the vehicle to actual purchase was over a week. So, as simple as it might sound trust me purchasing a vehicle in TZ is not as easy as the Blog entry!

I had a peaceful sense driving it back to the Center which was really important to me. I really really wanted to make a solid choice and was a little nervous about all the ins and outs. It was a good learning week for me and I am grateful to be able to have wheels to get food and all the ministry possibilities that this vehicle will bring! When I drove onto the Center all the nationals and missionaries on the center came to congratulate me. It was cute! Julius was grinning from ear to ear! You would have thought I was bring the car back for him! They had all been working on a place for me to park the car while I was gone.

There were some hideous 70s polar bear furry seat cushions that HAD to go. I was cleaning the car up on the inside and Julius immeadiately took the rag from me and couldn't wait to clean it. Bless his heart! He said he has missed cleaning a car and was so glad I finally got one. What a hoot. He spent the afternoon spreading the rock for the parking area and cleaning the car. It was Christmas x10 for both of us! He made that car sparkle! Then the truck came in and dumped rock with a HUGE dust cloud. Doesn't take long around here for it to look like a Bush Vehicle!

With a grateful heart here is me and my TZ Vehicle!

Prayer Points~

Grateful for a Vehicle
Pray that it is a hedge of protection as we go from place to place.
That it is not only a vehicle but a tool for great ministry here in TZ

Items of Re-Entry

2011-09-27T12:44:00.000+03:00

There are a lot of things involved in re-entering from one country to the next. The big thing is the flip flop that your heart does of the things and people you miss. But, here is a list of 10 funny things of programming the mind to think about living back in Tanzania! (There are lots of lists not just the ones for if the power is on or if the power is off!)

1. Careful when you chew rocks and bones likely.
2. Take a flashlight where ever you go inside or out! You never know where you will be or what you will be doing when the power goes out!
3. Right side of the Road or Wrong Side of the Road? Any side of the road is fare game if no one is there.
4. Do I want to iron? I do not iron for the wrinkles but to kill the bug eggs after the clothes have been drying on the line.
5. Freeze and Sift the Flower before use. Trust me you just want to remember to do that!
6. Soak in bleach all fruits, veggies, and eggs before placing in the Frig!
7. Always watch where you step!
8. Taking a Bath after going to the Market is always recommended.
9. Always, Always carry toilet paper!!!
10. Power days are mornings when you can plan to take a longer and warmer shower! And an add on~ water from the faucet is not good for the mouth!

I may not always love the living conditions but I always love the work that there is to do here!

And now there are 7 Watoto!

2011-09-26T18:37:00.001+03:00

In the words of Lomayani, "our church here at CMF keeps getting bigger!" Very early this morning at the clinic up the road Neema (one of our Church Planter Mommas) gave birth to a baby girl. She is so new that I am not sure that she has a name! Mom and baby returned to the Center today to rest and I got to sneak a peek!

Julius Gives Milo a Bath!

2011-09-23T15:21:00.000+03:00

Milo is a very good protector of the Boma but my does he ever go from White to Black fast! Milo was very good for Julius. He doesn't like baths but Milo loves Julius!

IDES helps with a Solar Pump for our well on the Training Center

2011-09-23T14:58:00.003+03:00

The CMFI Team here in Tanzania once again is grateful to IDES for funding. A great deal of the funding has gone to assist with Famine Relief. However, a portion of the funds went to a Solar Water Pump for the Training Center. The pump has been installed and the kinks are being worked out. It is working and we pray it will continue to provide water here regardless of the power situation. We had a good report on how much water is in the well! "Praise the Lord!" This also helps the Training Center to be another step closer to self sustaining.

Prayer Points~

Pray for Rain!

Pray that our well continues to work and the

solar pump continues to work

We thank God for the good report on our well!

Wouldn't Want to Meet this Guy in a Dark Ally!

2011-09-23T14:24:00.001+03:00

I am glad Milo likes hedge hogs as back yard friends

instead of the porcupine!

Today was the first Bubble Day!

2011-09-16T21:09:00.002+03:00

Tanzanians, IDES, and CMFI Tanzania Unite

2011-09-15T16:26:00.000+03:00

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure

and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows

in their distress and to keep oneself from

being polluted by the world."

James 1:27

Again because of the funding from IDES to assist with the famine needs in East Africa we were able to give corn during the last four days. Our CHE leader Elinipa with the help of WEPA (Women Education Project Arusha) organized invites to widows and the elderly of five villages. It was very well organized and moving to see how our neighbors came forth to receive help. Many of our workers at the CMF Center went to help distribute. It is always good for them to be able to serve and see the big picture of the ministry. Jane Ann (team leader,) Sarah and Amy (apprentices,) and I went one day to help and encourage. Julius our outside worker on the Center was there the day we were as well. It was fun to serve along side him to help the neighbors. Many of the elderly women would come around and hug each of us after she received her bag of corn.

Sometimes words are not adequate to describe.

Prayer Points~

Grateful for the combined efforts of these organizations to address the needs of the widows and elderly in our area.
The last few mornings we have awoken to a light drizzle. It helps but we are still praying for the flood gates to open!

Famine Feeding in Mirowa

2011-09-11T13:20:00.002+03:00

Saturday we left for Mirowa just as the sun was coming up. With our backpacks in hand we loaded the land cruiser on a mission to assist the Church Planters in Maasai Land by handing out grain. It is very dry and many are hungry. This venture always is filled with mixed emotion as one attempts to prepare your mind and heart with what you will see. However, I was very excited to see my friends in the bush again.

Our journey began with many great animal sitings. The giraffe family that always likes to welcome us to Maasai Land. The site of these animals never gets old my friends. Along with the giraffes there were ostrich and many of the antelope family. However, these "deer like creatures" are very difficult to tell a part. Impala, Dik-Dik, Waterbuck, Eland, and Hartebeest are somewhat common sitings outside of town. But, I saw a Kudu for the first time. This is a deer like creature brown with white strips that go around the lower end of its body almost like a zebra. They are narrow strips but along with the horns on its front end make up a magnificent animal. Another reminder just how creative our Creator God is!

As we pulled into Mirowa people had already begun to gather. The food had been purchased and was stored in a cement block room. I remember the first day that I ventured out here in the bush. I recall being slightly over-whelmed by the sea of black faces. Being a lover of people I knew they all were individual people but at that time they seemed as one. Not being able to put a face with a name and at first it can be difficult to tell one a part from the other. I say that to try to compare the difference I felt when I pulled up and saw this sea of faces this time. I saw my friends, students, and brothers and sisters in Christ. I recognized church planters, church members, and young precious faces who would gather when I taught. No more a sea of faces but a reuniting with friends. Among the sea of faces was one that I recognized right away. I shared with many of you the little orphan girl that they introduced me to when we were working on initial ideas for the project in how to help these ones of great need. She also was with me the last weekend before my furlough when I taught the youth. I blogged about her as well and the difficulty leaving her behind that day. But, I am happy to say that she was one of those faces I spotted getting out of the truck. I was so very happy to see her! She had tears in her eyes and I quickly made my way to her. Joseph said that she kept asking about me while I was gone. I told her that despite the fact that she may not have biological family her family is quite big in Christ. As I explained to her (with Joseph's help) how she was a part of the story that I told of what God was doing here in Tanzania. I shared with her how there were lots of people who loved her and I. And how you pray for us. I decided that she was such an important connection of the ministry that I would personally see to it that she would be able to get through school. Joseph calls Naserian my "Maasai Daughter." Naserian now knows of the hope found in Christ but she no longer feels alone and unwanted by the world. She was afraid for me to see her tears. But, she quietly spoke to say she was not used to someone caring so much. Joseph said that she was afraid her tears were weakness but as the tears strolled down my checks I had her look at me. I told her it was not a sign of weakness but a connection of the heart. Reuniting with Naserian was such a gift! She was connected to me at the rest of the day. This child worked so hard along side of me as we disrupted items.

It was also so good to see all the church planters in this area. They were very well organized! By villages each on the list would receive and then place their ink thumb print by their name. The men unloaded the bags of beans and corn along with boxes of oil. There were I think about eight village groups. Each church planter was in charge of a group we divided up to help hand out items. I must also say that the funds for this project and several others was because of IDES! We are grateful for their ministry and help to give relief in this way. 20 kilos of Corn, 2 kilos of Beans, and a thing of oil were given to over 800 families throughout the morning. Depending on the size of the family this will help feed for about 2 -3 weeks. The distribution began with prayer, worship, and words from scripture.

My job was to give the thing of oil. Naserian stood by my side and gave out oil. Some of the other kids went back and forth from playing to helping. But Naserian handed out and helped all morning long. Several times I was moved as I watched this young skinny girl hand out food to so many people in need when she herself had nothing. I am amazed constantly of the valuable lessons I learn here of loving one another. The young children who are in school will also receive food from this funding and project for the next several months while they are in class. The ugi mixture is a CHE project lead by one of our CHE workers Elinipa! These ladies up the mountain from us have taken a big step of faith to began this CHE project. This ugi mixture has good nutrients and protein in it. So we were able to purchase from these ladies to assist in the feeding of the kids in the Bush!

We watched as the people loaded their items for the walk home. Some loaded the massive bags on donkeys, some on their heads, and others carried it on their backs. This is also quite moving as you watch them help each other load their heavy items. Knowing they have so very far to walk! Despite the walk with heavy items I think they were relieved to be caring anything at all.

We celebrated with the church planters and enjoyed being with each other. We were able to see the new site that was given for the Widow and Orphan Project. It is a beautiful piece of land that hopefully soon will be a great site of hope for the hopeless.

My heart and mind are very tired today. But, Bwana SiFi We ~ Praise The Lord for He is good. How amazing to get to be a part of helping to bring Hope! Don't forget you are a part as well. Your support and prayers are vital to the work. I still can't believe we get to be a part but that was God's design and I am grateful!

Click to see my team at work!

Prayer Points~

These families who were given corn and beans may they be blessed physically and spiritually.
Continue to Pray for Rain!
blessing on the CHE Ugi project lead by the ladies up the hill and Elinipa
for the Church Planters in Maasai Land
Naserian ~ my "Maasai Daughter"
Blessing for the land and development of it for the widow and orphan project
Thankful for the kindness of IDES and their relief help

Judy and I

2011-09-08T20:18:00.000+03:00

This is my teammate and home group leader Judy Woods. She and Gary have been on the field in East Africa for over 20 years. What a prayer warrior! She has such a sweet spirit about her. We often say being with Judy is like drinking a cup of hot chocolate.

Fun with Meg!

2011-09-08T07:34:00.000+03:00

To celebrate the day before Megan went back to school we had coffee at Mt Meru Game Lodge after church. The fun part about sitting there

are all the animals they have roaming around! Also, this is Sarah and Amy who are CMF Apprentices with us. Sarah will be here until December

and Amy will be here till May. They have joined me in bunking up on the other side of the Rondavuls. We had a good day here at the Lodge!

"Prayer for Proper Passion:"

2011-09-06T22:12:00.000+03:00

This is a bit taken from my devotional reading of Dr. Faust's Study of 1 Thessalonians. Join me today as I pray this prayer. "God, let me know what's really important in your eyes. Make me care deeply about those things. And let me refuse to worry about anything else."

"Maana, mbele ya Mungu Baba yetu, twakumbuka, jinsi mnavyoonesha imani yenu kwa matendo, jinsi upendo wenu unavyowawezesha kufanya kazi kwa bidii, na jinsi tumaini lenu katika Bwana wetu Yesu Kristo lilivyo thabiti." 1 Wathesalonike 1:3

"For we remember before our God and Father how you put your faith into practice, how your love made you work so hard, and how your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ is firm." 1 Thessalonians 1:3

Let us Pray

Sherehe!

2011-08-30T08:49:00.002+03:00

Olais (who is the national teacher I work with in the classroom) had his third baby while I was in the States. He invited me to his boma for a Sherehe (party) for the child. Now, I am still trying to understand customs and how all these things work. Olais is Maasi and lives up Mt. Meru a bit. I knew it would be a great learning experience for me plus nice to be asked. Sunday morning I picked up Loserian (kinda our national leader of workers on the Center) who was invited as well and headed up the mountain. It was Market day in Nygaramtoni. Driving a truck on a one way dirt mountain road at Market Day is not fun just in case you were wondering! We made it and Olais was thrilled we came. I got to see Mary his wife (who was his helper in the classroom till she had the baby) his two beautiful daughters and one of the happiest baby boys I have ever seen. Below is his middle daughter her name translated in English is Grace. She was the first to steal my heart. I took gifts of clothes, knitted hats, and bracelets as gifts for the children. She put her pillow case dress on top of the one she had on crawled up on my lap and stayed there most of the afternoon. Mzungu (white person) is always kinda the center of attention! I met Olais family and friends as well. As the afternoon wore on I am trying to figure out exactly what happens at these things. I knew that the women were preparing a meal while the men were kinda sitting around and preparing the sherehe area. That is Maasai for you but wait it gets better!

This is Olais, Mary, Dorcas (9yrs old,) Grace (3yrs old,) and Samweli (8mths) outside their Boma.

So I am picturing this party to kinda be like a Baby Dedication in the States. You know not the same thing like as in presentation but in idea and purpose. I also thought this gathering was because they just had a baby. Well all those guesses were kinda wrong and I am still trying to figure out the Maasai Tradition of this gathering. But, first of all Mary's family was like 3hrs late. Which is very Africa but still come on! I thought ok well if the mom is old and walking from a long ways I'll cut them some slack. (Turns out Mary's dad has two wives very Maasai and her biological mom was ill couldn't come but the other wife was.) But, they came riding up (finally) in 3 or 4 dala-dalas (TZ 70s church van like transport.) The party begins! All of Olais family begin the African sound of cheer (I like to call it) and lined up in what looked like a Conga Line. The girls on one side the guys on the other. They are dancing and cheering as her family are getting out of the vehicles forming the same lines on the other side. When all are out and in line on both sides they sing a very quiet and moving song while they move to greet each person. Then, Olais parents form the start of the line then at the entrance of the boma to come in and be seated. If you click on the second picture below plays button it is a short clip of part of this. The first picture is all of us seated under the tarp for the Sherehe!

All of this is happening while Mary (mother) and the kids are still in the Boma. I asked Loserian when they were coming out to join. He said, "oh they don't come." (As much as I love the Maasai I wouldn't last being a Maasai wife for a day!) I also found out that this Sherehe is for all the children and only occurs once for all children of Olais. And, if I understood right it is initiated by the mom's family. But, I am still working on understanding the details! The mom's family brought in a truck load of food that they began unloading. The party began with prayer by Loserian and everyone was then offered a soda. Then, there is a presentation of money gifts. Olais father went first followed by the male on that side. Then the momma and the women. I guess this is money collected to help with the provision of the children. Of course I had to dance up there and present my gift. It was a sight I am sure you are sorry you missed! You are announced who you are and then the amount you are giving. In my American mindset I wasn't thrilled about this but as I watched cheers were given for the least just as much as the most. That mindset didn't apply who gave more etc. We were fed of course and so far so good if you get my drift! It was a great learning experience for me and thrilled to be a part. But, it was exhausting. I had to leave early get back before dark especially since I had no idea how to get back down the mtn. Loserian escorted me back till I knew my way. He is so generous and works so hard to help us! Hope you enjoy hearing about a Watoto Sherehe for Maasai. It doesn't begin to do justice but it is the best I can do!

Prayer Points~

Today pray for Olais and his family. I continue to pray for our partnership in ministry to the kids in the training. Pray for the next steps as we take steps in a further direction in teaching the kids.

Milo and Sampson Guarding the Boma!

2011-08-30T08:37:00.002+03:00

Spice Party in Action!

2011-08-29T20:31:00.000+03:00

To the Friday Morning Ladies Bible Study~ Janet (My wonderful House Helper) and I (along with the two apprentices living with me) are very grateful for the Spice Party! For it has definitely spiced up our meals! When I was unpacking and Janet was taking all of them out of zip lock bags and putting them on the shelf. She said, "they are all different!" My shelves are stocked and it has been a HUGE help in preparing meals. I think of you when they are used and grateful for the fellowship I am able to have with all of you even from afar! Janet has had so much fun cooking and we have had fun eating. Truly it has helped with the adjustment. Because of the famine and lack of power many of the stores lack in even what they were able to offer prior. Thank you for helping to stock the shelves and our tummies! The time together was very meaningful. Your prayers for my travel and transition were and are felt in a comforting way!

Prayer Points~

Today and everyday I am thankful for Janet! She helps make life here easier and is a helpful partner in the ministry. She has a cheerful spirit, patient with my Swahili, and is a fabulous from scratch cook! Janet has two girls and today I pray a special blessing on her and her family. I would not be as happy here in Tanzania without her! God gave me a great helper to be able to serve here more effectively.

Asente Sana Diana and Friend

2011-08-29T07:19:00.001+03:00

Diana and her friend hand knitted these precious hats in a variety of colors and sizes for kids here in Tanzania. It was a cold morning and I took one of these precious hats to each child in class. I am still building relationships for the they a little timid. They took the hats put them on and quietly said Asente. This precious girl above has been wearing hers ever since. The colors look great on her and it is super cute. Thank you so much for blessing us with your kindness!

Prayer Points~

these 6 precious children as they learn this week!
1/2 of them have been ill (sometimes they come with different non-contagious illnesses.) 3 went to the clinic Friday and I am not sure what they have. Please pray for our health.

It was an Africa Day!

2011-08-27T18:54:00.000+03:00

It was my first "Africa Day" which is one of those days that you know you live in Africa. It is a label with an attempt to put a positive spin on the realization of cultural differences. In most cases it takes a great amount of patience to live here and most things have about 10 more steps to them than would in a place like the States. So, I will attempt to give you an example of an "Africa Day!"

When I woke up we had power. I go through the massive check list that needs to occur when power is on. For example things to turn on include: water heater, usb battery, laundry if needed, coffee pot, etc. Things to plug in are: computer, ipod, kindle, etc. The list is quite extensive and I continue to train my brain to think that way again. However, the first point of "Africa Day" is that I just pushed the coffee button and the power goes off. Ok, so no problem we come up with plan B for coffee and move to the list of all the things to shut off when the power goes off.

The morning was an extensive meeting about finances which was not bad. However, it is also tricky to figure out the new methods of keeping our fiances. Then to convert TSHILLINGS to US Dollars. This was not bad just numbers are not my thing so it takes a lot to then figure it out in TSHILLINGS.

I walked back to the boma where I find the Internet people at the house to work on the Internet because it has been out. I was thrilled to see them finally here since it had been a day short of a week since they were supposed to be here. But, remember slight problem. They are all watching me not working because there is no power. So, one of our workers knows the generator has to be turned on for them to work. No problem turn the generator on. Well, that should be easy but it wasn't. Because the worker then broke the pull string to the generator. Now my only source of power is gone while three workers are just sitting here in my house. Then, the process unfolds of them switching out the generators from the one to the front of the center. (The missionary over maintenance is in town during all of this.) The switch them out and wifi is fixed. But, wait I should get on with my computer so that we know how it works and that it works. Because many times you have to figure out how to set up the settings because they are opposite of what they should be in Africa. (Remember it is an Africa Day!) As I am setting my computer off they turn the generator off to take it back up front. There goes the test run while the workers are still on site!

Fixing dinner by candle light. Takes a long time to prep but finally eat. Getting dark but Ron is back from town and graciously fixes the generator. Oh but there is no petrol (fuel) for the generator. Travel to the edge of town for fuel. Get back turn generator on. Prep things that should be on while the generator is on. Leave it on for the time that should be allowed.

Decide it is time to end the day by reading or something quiet. Light every candle in my sleeping room sit down and the power comes on. Check List and blow out all the candles. Finally sit down and power goes out. You have got to be kidding me!!!!!!! (oh by the way my computer is not connecting to the wifi after all the above efforts!!)

Sitting there in the dark tears of frustration form! All I want to do is just hear a familiar loving voice of encouragement to spur me on. Cause it is an "Africa Day" and everything is taking so much time just to survive today!

This place is not an easy place to live. However, saying all that just because it is an "Africa Day" does not mean that I am not happy here in serving. Some days the frustrations of surviving here can just get to you. When in most cases these tasks you would not have to do or would take no time to do in the States. Come to find out there were about 5 people on our team having "Africa Days." Finally, I crawled up on my bed and decided to watch a movie on my computer. I grabbed a movie called "This Side of Heaven." Not knowing what it was I suddenly was moved to laughter and tears as I watched this young man adjust to the cultural difficulties of living in another part of the world. How wonderful it was to have that be the movie I choose to watch at the conclusion of this day.

While I am watching the movie the power comes on and I don't move because I am afraid of it being just another tease! But, it stays on! I am able to figure my computer out to be on wifi as well. So, at the end of the day I heard a familiar voice, watched an encouraging movie (not sure which one of you gave that to me but you will never know how much that stuff helps sometimes!) And at the end of the day power was on and wifi worked! But, I was ready to end this day and begin a new one! There are days that just are not easy and the frustration builds easier. It is a good thing that I know I serve a Mighty God who has called me to this dusty land. Cause some days are just hard!

Prayer Points~

Continue to pray for transition
Praise that we were safe while swimming since we found out later there now crocidiles in that water. I knew it was too good to be true!

Maji Moto

2011-08-25T21:54:00.000+03:00

Wesley Carter is 15 today! He picked going to Maji Moto for his celebration!

We enjoyed a fun day together with a picnic, swimming, laughter, and cake. This is a hidden jewel in the middle of DRY NO WHERE! Truly an Oasis

I will say that this experience stretched me a bit. A beautiful spring but it totally contradicted

the motto in Africa to always adapt of NEVER going into standing water! I decided since I could see

to the bottom for Wes I would even swim for the occasion.

Prayer Points~

Today, I am grateful for Wes' life and the mature young man that he is!
Savannah, Wes, and the whole Carter Crew as they drop the older kids to begin their year at RVA in Nairobi on Saturday.

Meeting the kids!

2011-08-22T15:29:00.000+03:00

Today, I began the day with the workers in their morning devotions. It was so good to be reunited with my ministry friends! They each have a special role here on the center to allow training to occur. What sweet friends.

I was able to venture to the classroom today! There are four families here for training from an entire new area from what I understand. They are from the north up by Lake Victoria. Three tribes from this area are within this training cycle. They are Kuria, Jita, and Mkerewe. These families have six kids within my classroom and one on the way! Olais explained that they were very scared last week but already they have come to love the classroom. They are a sweet little group that will be great fun to teach these next many weeks! The only boy in the group fell over and bumped his head on the concrete floor. Now that is a bummer! I was careful not to scare him but he came to me. I consoled him and it felt so good to have one of my babies in my hands again! He recovered from his fall and became my little buddy. The next item of business was to get down to diaper business! Ann and Marjorie were gracious to set us up with cloth diapers! This will aid greatly in cleanliness in the classroom and knock the number of outfits I have to wear in one day down considerably! My little buddy whose name is Baraka meaning Blessing was not real thrilled about it at first but it helped in a VERY big way! Thank you ladies very much! The children's chos (bathroom) were built onto the classroom so that also helps in a big way! The first week of teaching to go to the cho was not quite as traumatic this time. I placed Baraka on my back and worked on getting the other little two set up with their new school uniform! Baraka fell asleep on my back and it warmed my heart for sure.

It was great to meet with Olais and I was encouraged that he has been doing many of the things that he learned while we taught together. I am happy about that! I found pictures and different things from last years group that helped me see that great learning continued to take place during my furlough!

I will look forward to introducing you to each of our children individually within the coming weeks.

Jumapili - Sunday

2011-08-21T16:43:00.000+03:00

The stars are a blanket of comfort like I remember. Especially when our power is usually out. It does take a moment to get used to how very dark it is. There are a lot of things to get used to again. However, I will begin by saying thank you for the prayers for and through transition! They are felt and in small and big ways there are many moments of comfort found through transitioning back to life in Tanzania. In a very real and surprising way it is home. I know many of you have heard me say it during my time in the States with heart. But, sometimes it still takes getting used to how your heart is split in two within two very different places. Now that I have transitioned back I will say that I feel even more at home here but I also know there is work to be done here as well. It is good to walk through my little boma here and have it be so comfortable. Even with no power and sometimes cold showers. Even with being gone for almost eight months it is as if I have never left. I drove yesterday and was on the side of the road that I was supposed to be on! I didn't hit any animals or people and found my destination without a problem. Things have changed a bit but not enough for me to feel out of place. I am sure some culture shock moments will come and I expect them in parts in the next weeks to come. However, God's comfort is found under the sparkling stars over here in my corner of Africa.

Jumapili, it is Sunday. As I type this most in the States are beginning the day of worship as I am ending it. I remember my first Sunday here and how the day was filled with many tears trying to adjust. Sundays can be a hard day and I do miss all the hugs at PCC in a very BIG way. But, it also was good to see my friends here and to worship the God we serve. That my friends does not change no matter where you are! As I type this I say a prayer for your morning and when you read this I hope you will continue to pray as we worship our God here in Tanzania.

As I unpacked my bags it was a time of great blessing. I am amazed at the items I pulled out and how each one reminded me of people all over the States who so graciously wanted to bless the ministry here in Tanzania. Many things made in love for the many beautiful children here who have never seen a brand new piece of clothing. Items for cooking help, things to remind me of my home in the States, and items to encourage. Know that you are thought of and I am so thankful for such wonderful support on the journey. For those of you who made special things, gave so generously, and even packed them with care~ I am thankful for you!

Prayer Points~

Keep praying for my re-entry!
Pray for the 4 families who are currently in training from an entirely new tribal area. They have 6 kids who I hope to meet on Monday.
Pray for the drought and famine. The land is so very dry and in much need of rain. We rejoice that IDES has given some relief funds to help with food and solar projects for us during this difficult time. The famine is an issue and I think I heard in one of the areas elephants were taking maize out of the storage units. (I bet not a lot of you can say you have ever had that issue in your pantry!) But, please pray for the drought and how it is affecting our people.

We left home ~ We are home!

2011-08-18T18:15:00.000+03:00

We did it again! Milo and I made it all the way! That journey is never an easy one but it seemed a little more bearable this time. I am grateful for the people along the way that help in little ways with the journey. I was pretty alert when we landed and determined to get through customs without any hassle. I found two carts and began hauling my 10 bags off the belt. I had many people who watched me either impressed or in amazement. I didn't care I was determined and ready to be in a bed! I got through customs with them only opening one bag and didn't get hackled for money. I am getting pretty good at this! Milo didn't make a sound during this process! They didn't even know he was in there!!!!! Milo was so good and slept most of the way! He kept licking me on the first part of the trip when I wasn't sure the tears would ever stop. He is so very comforting and I am lucky to have him! The Washs were all there to pick me up and it was great to see them. Milo and I pretty much went to bed and slept till 1pm TZ time! We were exhausted!

Today, we feel very at home and confirms even more that we are where we are supposed to be. Back to the cool showers, being dirty all the time, and no power. But, home believe it or not! Milo is now his shade of grey after a day of exploring and hiking his leg over every plant! He has been outside playing with Sampson all day. They are so excited to see each other! It is good to see our teammates and friends here! We are grateful to be back! Thank you for your notes of encouragement and prayers! They padded the journey well!

Prayer Points~

Grateful for the journey here and the Lord's provision!
Transition and Jet Lag
Peace on the journey!

Amsterdam

2011-08-17T09:53:00.000+03:00

Milo and I have made it to Amsterdam. We have about an hour and will start the long boarding process here. We have slept some but you know how it goes on these long flights. Most of you are probably warm and cozy in your beds. I say a prayer for your day ahead. I have crossed back to the point that I am ahead of schedule in the day compared to those of the States. I will get word out as soon as I can about my return to our Tanzanian Home!

Prayer Points~

The next 8hrs on our last LONG flight!
Getting through customs
Transition and Jet Lag

We love you! Wendy and Milo

Wendy and Milo are in route!

2011-08-16T22:28:00.002+03:00

I won't lie tears are streaming down my face. My heart is split in two. It is a feeling that I continue to grow in understanding of the missionary heart. One eye is filled with tears of joy and happiness of returning back to Tanzania. Transitioning from telling the story of how God is moving in Tanzania the hands on work. I look forward to being in my house and seeing my friends. The other eye of course is the deep sadness of leaving my family and friends. No longer will I feel the hugs and touch of people who mean so very much. The goodbyes are done and we transition to the journey. Currently, we are in Detroit waiting for our 6:30pm flight to Amsterdam. We had to take an earlier flight for fear of missing my next one due to a delay. It made things go even faster at the airport but all considering it was smooth. Today I am grateful for Eloise who took care of my bags and checked me in. She was very kind and made the task as good as it can be. She remembered me from my trip before and shared tears as she loaded my last item on the belt. I pray for more people like Eloise who help make this journey a bit more bearable. Milo is currently laying in my arms like a baby. He is doing so well and occasionally licks my arm to assure me that we will soon be in our Tanzanian Home. I think he too knows we have also left home. It is somewhat a relief to be at this point and we will continue on this long journey till we have reached our destination.

Thank you to those who helped with my goodbye and the process of getting out the door. I am blessed and love you all dearly. Back to the field I go with many treasureable moments stored in my heart!

Prayer Points~

Travel Safety
Getting through Customs
Transition back to the life in Tanzania

Thank you my dear dear Jennifer for your kind words. Love ya!

writeaboutnowjt.wordpress.com

CMF Furlough Retreat

2011-07-24T21:45:00.000+03:00

This past week it was nice to gather with staff and missionaries of CMF. The hot days were filled with times of instruction, refreshment, and spiritual renewal. My favorite is getting to me my CMF Missionary friends who serve all over the world. It is grand to be able to be with people who have a similar heart beat. CMFI also has announced the new logo. It was fun to get to be on the brainstorming end of this project. It will be fun as the new print is seen in more and more places! Thanks to those who worked so hard to make it an enjoyable week to gather together!

Things I learned from the MKs!

Dinner conversation can include a competition of who has eaten the most bizarre meal! Fish Eyes or Cow Tongue!! You can decide what you think!
So much fun to gather with friends who know what it is like living in a foreign culture.
Having friends all over the world is a really cool thing!
Always saying goodbye can be hard!
Home is wherever you are that day and night!

Prayers Points~

This last phase of being in the States begin a month of goodbyes. It is hard
I have (I believe) my final church presentation with the Price Hill Church in Cincinnati this Sunday.

Cleared for Take Off!

2011-07-19T18:23:00.000+03:00

The day has come and I have been cleared for take off and set to depart back to Tanzania on August 16th! Less than a month away I am very excited to return to my Tanzanian home but it will be very hard to say goodbye again to those here in the States!

Prayer Points~

I am grateful for my partners in the ministry to the children of Tanzania
Transitioning to leave the States~ Pray that my heart will prepare well to say goodbye
Packing
Re-entry to Tanzania

Time in Glen Eyrie

2011-07-15T19:14:00.000+03:00

Glen Eyrie is tucked behind the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, CO. (or as those of us call Garden of The God!) This historical house of General Palmer is beautiful! This was the host site for our retreat this week. Women of the Harvest had 100 Women Missionaries for a time of renewal. My teammate Annelle and I got to be two of the one hundred! To my knowledge I have never really been one of those girls who dreamed of being cinderella but being here you can't help but feel like a princess!

Women of the Harvest is a ministry dedicated to encouraging women who serve in cross - cultural service. There were 40 volunteers from all over North America who arrived with the purpose of serving those of us who were attending. I will admit it felt slightly odd to be pampered but it was a blessing. Together we had moments of worship, learning, and talking about what life is like as a missionary. In the afternoons there was time for rest, pedicures, haircuts, massages, counseling, shopping for clothes and books that were all free! Yes, I said pampering and that is what the afternoons were filled with. It was great to be with Annelle and it was a time of refreshment. I am grateful for this much needed week.

Prayer Points~

Periods of rest

NACC Week!

2011-07-10T04:49:00.000+03:00

I just returned from one of my favorite cities in the US! Cincinnati is where the North American Christian Convention was held this year for 2011. I remember sitting in the Continuation Committee Meeting thinking how far off this NACC seemed at the time. Yes, time marches on! It is always good to see people that you are only able to cross paths with during the NACC. I saw friends and mentors that I have not been able to see since college! Plus, the great workshops and sessions that challenge.

This NACC was unique for me this year. My life has changed a lot since that Continuation Committee Meeting. As I sat through the many sessions gleaming truths from the book of Acts about being Unleashed I realized that I am living that life. Before you think that my ego has gotten the best of me let me explain. I recall many NACC, NMC, Retreats, sermons etc. thinking I know that I am doing good work for the Kingdom but am I really living a life like the scripture that is preached? Not so much as deep as to say a guilty feeling but as I would travel back to my home there was a wrestling in my heart. Someday I want to be able to tell stories like that. Not because I want and audience or a platform but because I want to live a life like the speaker challenged. I want to change lives and make a difference for Christ. Like I stated above this does not mean that the ministries I held previous to now were not important along with the ways that I served when I was younger. However, the wrestling spirit within was preparing me and challenging me for what was ahead. As I sat there among thousands of people I thought to myself nope my life is not boring. Yes, I have seen things like I am reading here in the book of Acts. I can tell a story like that man up there of how God has worked in my life in ways I never thought possible. Both right here in the States and in a land that is at the far ends of the earth the spirit has worked in my life in Mighty ways. Not because of anything I have done but because I was willing to answer the challenge. Unleashed is right! My challenge has taken me to Tanzania but that doesn't mean your is the same. But, I hope you have one!

Prayer Points~

This is a week of refreshment! I will be going to a furlough retreat for women who are on the mission field. Please pray that this is a time of refueling this tired body, soul, and spirit!
My re-entry to TZ could be as little as a month away!

VBS at Delhi!

2011-06-25T19:13:00.002+03:00

Christ Church at Delhi always has a special place in my heart. I was able to be a part of special events with my dear friend Dana Eynon. I met Dana because of Peggy Hileman and was able to help the Eynon's through illness. Even though physically Dana is no longer on this Earth and at Delhi she is very much present. This week was VBS week and I was able to be there as their missionary for the week! I am grateful for Mr. Llyod's leadership and though by the eye a smaller church I assure you mighty things are happening! This week was also special because Milo and my niece Shelby was able to come with me! We enjoyed being together this week in Cincinnati! Milo really got into VBS and the kids loved him! Milo was very good during Missions Moments and also loved leading the VBS songs! On average 15 kids raised over $500 for a vehicle in TZ! They did a wonderful job and were very excited to meet their goal! One boy by the name of John was very touched by missions and reaching the kids in TZ. On the last day this quiet and thoughtful young man brought his jar of savings for offering. Full of coins and bills the amount reached over $80! I was touched by this young man and his generosity. His mom was also very touched, grateful, and a little surprised by her son. She said I had made a significant mark in her son's life. I told her that I felt it was mutual! I continue to be amazed at how God works and allows the Spirit to work in all of our lives to do a Mighty work while on this Earth!

Missions Moment with Wendy and Milo

"Let's Sing to Jesus!"

Milo checking out to see if we have reached our Goal yet?!!

John

Bless his Heart!

Counting of the Jar!

Shelby, Milo, and I had a great week in Cincinnati!

Milo Prepping for Re-Entry to TZ!

2011-06-21T19:24:00.002+03:00

I am ready to Go HOME!

Crossroads Christian Church VBS

2011-06-17T17:12:00.002+03:00

Tonight is the closing evening for the VBS at Crossroads here in FL! The families all come tonight for a closing festive VBS gathering. An evening VBS can take some getting used to but we have had a wonderful week. The part that I have enjoyed the most is seeing the people of Crossroads both young and old get excited about missions. I think I am one of the first missionaries to come specifically for VBS in awhile. The kids are asking great questions and are working very hard to equip me with what is needed to return to TZ! The kids had a goal to be able to put wheels on my car. These 100 kids realize one day that more parts make up a car and they have been so generous to see how many parts they can get! The kids in TZ need to know about Jesus and they are determined to help as much as they can. I believe it was Wednesday Night the kids brought in almost $400 which was their goal for the entire week! They have almost doubled their goal and are very excited that tonight they will get to put in a staff member in a dunk tank to celebrate! I love being able to paint a picture for kids in the US to be connected to kids in TZ! I was able to have a 20min. station each night with the kids to build and share about the ministry in Tanzania.

It has been great to be with kids again and they have grown in their understanding of missions. There are a couple of girls that remind me of myself. Regardless if I ever see them again I pray that there might be one who is willing to go to the far reaches of the world to share God's love.

I shared with the kids that the kids in TZ love to play soccer. It is always one thing that they are both aware of playing. I shared with the kids of Crossroads that sometimes the kids in TZ don't have a ball to play with. I explained how they make one out of trash or brush. Many of the kids were surprised by that and know that they have multiple balls at home. The following day of sharing that with them during Missions Mania one of the kids came up to me. He said, "I have several soccer balls at home." Holding up a soccer ball he said, "I was wondering if you could take this to the kids in TZ." I love it when kids are able to find ways themselves to respond in a loving way to bless others. This kid was also a teacher to us adults because I think it was a bit of a surprise that he would be one to respond in this way. My friends we never know how the Spirit will work in the lives of His people!

EJ ~ the boy who gave his soccer ball

Prayer Points~

I am thankful for the hospitality of the Margasons while in FL. It has been a great encouragement to me to get to spend some time with MaryBeth again!
I travel from FL to Indy on Saturday. Leave for Cincinnati on Monday for another week of VBS!
Strength as I travel and share with kids in the States about Missions
For my funding and commitments to come in the next couple of weeks so that I am able to return to TZ mid-August

Target Time!

2011-06-13T23:52:00.001+03:00

The day before I left on yet another venture I had an afternoon of meetings with CMF! It seems to be a go to shoot for a mid-August re-entry to Tanzania. As exciting as that is there are so many emotions that come. Excitement to return Home! Joy to return to the ministry and people in TZ! A bit of sadness to have to say goodbye here again for awhile. Anxious cause there is a lot to do! That is the human part of me but above all I continue to pray for Godly Wisdom.

CMF also stated to make this happen my commitments for my funding must be in place by mid-July! That means I have a couple of weeks to finalize the last of my budget needs. My monthly sustaining budget is at 87% and my Outgoing is at 51%. Please be in prayer that those who are needed to partner will rise in the next several weeks. (Any additional suggestions of possible partners please talk to them or send me their contact info!) I am venturing to 3 different Vacation Bible Schools in the next several weeks. These are all smaller churches but join with me in prayer that God will do Mighty things in these few weeks ahead. That the spirit will move in these young lives to have a love of missions, heart for people, and a desire to support the ministry by helping with the funds my car in TZ.

Prayer Points~

for the rest of my funding needed to return to TZ
strength during this season of VBS
Hearts who are stirred for how God is Moving in the World!

NYC Fun!

2011-06-13T23:26:00.000+03:00

Fun in NYC visiting Geoff and Lisa!

Philadelphia Fun!

2011-06-10T02:13:00.001+03:00

The Liberty Bell is a "very significant symbol for the entire democratic world."

Nelson Mandela
July 4, 1993

Sunday in Kids Praise at PCC!

2011-06-10T01:46:00.000+03:00

Sunday I got to be in Kids Praise at Plainfield Christian Church! I loved being a part of worship and then getting to share with them about the kids in Tanzania! These kids have a special place in my heart. They are ones I held in the nursery, sang to Jesus with in Preschool Praise, first 3 day experience of their going to camp, and hugged every Sunday! These kids are a part of my journey! How wonderful it was to tell them about my kids in an entire different part of the world! They were great listeners and had fun questions. But, there is one gal who has especially captured my heart!

Monday I was able to help with registration at Vacation Bible School. A girl looking for her VBS class came up to me and while in conversation about which class she was in said, "I sent a box to Tanzania." In the midst of the festivities I didn't think much of it and thought it might be something to treat the MK's with! But, today I received an e-mail from the CMF office. The receptionist said they had received a box that they thought was to go to Tanzania. A simple little box containing three special toys (one being a soccer ball which I remember saying how much they loved to play but with usually no ball,) my card with a check for $6.00, and a colorful envelope marked "a note for the kids in Tanzania." I realized this is what the young girl meant on Monday and it was her response to hearing about the kids in Tanzania. None of these things were ideas I had given to the kids but her response to partner in sharing the love of Jesus with those who do not know! I love kids and their Godly trait of sharing!

Question~ what are you going to put $6.00 towards today?

Moments to Treasure

2011-06-04T04:12:00.001+03:00

Furlough can be hard! People often respond when I say that I live in Tanzania with Wow how can you give up all of this? I am not always sure what "this" means but I do not always look at it as giving up when I am in Tanzania. When I am there I embrace a different life but I gain far more than what I give up. Saying that however doesn't mean that there are not things that I miss very much but that is just it they are things. The "this" is not so important anymore. The "this" for me which is the very hardest to leave within the States are relationships. The greatest thing about furlough is enjoying those relationships that I do not take for granted! I am trying to enjoy every minute I have! But, when the time comes to have to say goodbye again I know there are my Tanzanian Friends and Teammates who are ready to embrace on the other side!

Moments with Grandparents

Moments with Mentors!

Moments with dear friends!

Moments with Family!

Wonderful moments getting to be an aunt!

Moments reuniting with friends!

Moments back with the Bible Study Ladies!

Moments with my Cincinnati Family!

It is these treasurable moments that more often bring tears because I enjoy them

so much and no longer take them for granted. There are more moments to be had but I know it is getting
close to having to say goodbye to these relationships so I can get back to my Tanzanian ones!

Oh and by the way it is what "this" life is all about!

Fundraising Nights in Plainfield!

2011-06-04T03:34:00.001+03:00

My cousin's wife Carrie was kind enough to offer to consult a 31 Fundraiser Party for Tanzania and my friend Amber was kind enough to provide the site! It was a fun girl night! We got to eat, sit, chat, shop, and raise funds for me to return to Tanzania. Not to many nights can top that! As you can see Bella (my niece) really was into the party! She really gets into bags!

We had a GREAT night at Chick-fil-A! The staff was super to work with and I am greatful for the turnout! After traveling so much and being in training it was just great to see so many people and visit! Asante Sana!

Thank you to all of you how came and participated in the fun

and are willing to be a part in my journey to return to the ministry in Tanzania!

CHE Week

2011-06-04T03:09:00.000+03:00

Another check mark down on the Stateside Check List! I had a week of CHE Training. The week was long but it was GREAT! I met some super new friends who have a desire to make a difference in the world. It was great to be in a room filled with people who have a similar heart beat for the WORLD!

CHE stands for Community Health Evangelism and it is a tool that we use to minister in Tanzania. Our leaders were great and the instruction was eye opening. The training process is very inclusive and driven by participation. Amazing how it can be used in almost any setting with very little materials and yet have a lasting affect. Most importantly it is a holistic approach to an individual and brings them to a knowledge of his/her creator! So, little used and yet powerful material!

Prayer Points~

Pray that now this information has been passed down to me that the Spirit of the Lord will continue to work in my mind and heart to how some of these principles can be used as I explore ways to enhance the education of children in Tanzania!

Missionary Dog

2011-05-27T22:39:00.000+03:00

We are resting on the Word!

Estes Park, Colorado

2011-05-12T07:03:00.000+03:00

Estes is one of my favorite places to visit. Treated by dear friends I escaped for some much needed R & R! 24hrs was not enough but had to come down for fear of more snow! I made good use of my time with quiet walks, quiet time, and sleep! It was so very good for my tired soul!

This song What Faith Can Do by Kutless is the song that kept rolling through my head! I think for encouragement and to press on!

Everybody falls sometimes
Gotta find the strength to rise
From the ashes and make a new beginning
Anyone can feel the ache
You think it’s more than you can take
But you're stronger, stronger than you know
Don’t you give up now
The sun will soon be shining
You gotta face the clouds
To find the silver lining

I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn’t ever end
Even when the sky is falling
I’ve seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That’s what faith can do

It doesn’t matter what you’ve heard
Impossible is not a word
It’s just a reason for someone not to try
Everybody’s scared to death
When they decide to take that step
Out on the water
It’ll be alright
Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing

I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn’t ever end
Even when the sky is falling
I’ve seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That’s what faith can do

Overcome the odds
You don't have a chance
(That’s what faith can do)
When the world says you can’t
It’ll tell you that you can!

I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn’t ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I’ve seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That’s what faith can do

That's what faith can do!
Even if you fall sometimes
You will have the strength to rise

BOUNCE for Tanzania!

2011-05-12T06:42:00.000+03:00

BOUNCE for Tanzania!
n'
Loveland, Colorado

"Heaven is for Real" by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent

2011-05-10T18:38:00.000+03:00

I do not know if you have read this book or not. It is a story discovered in pieces of Burpo's son Colton's trip to Heaven. This blog post somewhat partners with the earlier one of the beauty of a child's faith and how we have so much to learn. I was brought to tears many times of this little boy's innocent account of what he saw and experienced. My favorite was Colton's gravitating and awe of Jesus' eyes. I am not sure yet how I feel about the theological perspective but there is one thing that I learned from this book. This little boy's complete and pure yearning for Heaven. Sure, we all want to go but do we yearn from our inner core?

I yearn to return to my kids in Tanzania. I have never experienced a yearning like this. Discovering "home" in two very different countries has caused a stirring within. Because, I have found a home in Tanzania my experiences of life here in the States doesn't always feel like home anymore. There are parts of me that wrestles no matter which country I am living in. I was kind of frustrated! Even though I know it is the life of a missionary. But, I realize that my wrestling is a gift. Scripture tells us that we live in this world but not of this world. My inner yearning and stirring has caused me to understand more of what this scripture passage means for us as Christians.

I treasure this time in the States with all my loved ones but I yearn to return to the kids of Tanzania. I was reading in my study this morning about Paul's conversion. The author of the study was saying that one of the questions for Christ about his personal journey would be, "Why did you call me?" "With all my failures and frailties, why do I have the privilege of loving You of knowing You the little that I do?" I sometimes ask those questions as well. I am amazed of God's love and how He pursues me. He desires a heart of worship and to move among this world with a yearning for life with Him. My eternal worship will only be complete with my kids of Tanzania are along side of me in Glory.

This little boy's account has caused me to think and once again examine my stirring heart. I yearn for Tanzania because of this unexplainable call but I am learning day by day to have an even deeper yearning for Heaven.

Prayer Points~

May we have a yearning for Heaven and for those near and far to be a part of that same yearning!
Pray for my yearning heart that desires to return to Tanzania
Praise and Prayer! I am 85% of my sustaining (monthly) budget. I am praying for (not limited to) 4 people/groups who are able to partner with $200 a mth and my mthly budget will be ready for return! I have a hand full of people praying about this oppertunity and I pray that you will join us in prayer! It is my desire that all of my partners need me just as much as I need them as we journey together in ministry.

Spirit Night at Chick-Fil-A

2011-05-10T04:47:00.001+03:00

2 weeks from today!

Support a CMF Missionary to Tanzania Spirit Night!

People like you make our community a better place

But what about the cows? Tell you what—stop by and present this form at Plainfield Chick-fil-A. Based on the evening sales, Chick-fil-A will make a donation to CMF Missionary.

Not only do the cows win, but you will too!

Where: Chick-Fil-A @ Plainfield

2687 E. Main St.

When: 5pm - 8pm

Monday May 23, 2011

Bring in this Flyer

Print this above info or

e-mail me @ wendy.tanzania@gmail to request a flyer

Bring your friends and lets meet for dinner!

Visit with Scott and Annelle!

2011-05-02T05:44:00.001+03:00

You know that smell when you enter an area and smell chocolate chip cookies coming out of the oven? No matter where I am I can instantly feel at home! That feeling is how I felt when I got to spend the week with Scott and Annelle Price in their home base area of Colorado Springs. The Price's are my teammates in Tanzania who were also my bridge people my first year in TZ. As a single person it has been very difficult to be separated by so many miles from my teammates. Dear friends who share a love for Africa and know what my life is like there. Not only is it hard to leave Africa but it is very hard to be so faraway from those who know the heartbeat of this journey. So, this week has been that aroma that fills my mind and heart of friends who know of home in Tanzania.

Now the one negative is that it was very cold and snowing most of our week. We were so very cold! Easter was cold but it was fun to see Price's daughter Renee' and her family. The five year old twin granddaughters came to visit in Tanzania last spring so it was fun to see them again. They were bummed that Milo didn't get to come! They now have a cute baby brother and it was fun to meet him! They enjoyed the candy perks of Easter after a very lovely worship service that morning.

We enjoyed catch up moments. But mostly it was refreshing to not have to work so hard to communicate life in TZ and the emotions of life back in the States. Now, you know I love talking about those things to anyone who will listen but there is something about having a conversation with someone who has experienced what you are talking about. It was six days of the closest thing I have to relief of the homesick feeling of Africa without making that 30 plus hour trip! They understand the emotional roller coaster feeling of tears when you think of home in Africa and have just as many tears thinking of having to say goodbye in the States again. Regardless, of the tears the heartfelt call does not change and the date to return to Tanzania will come.

Yes, to the best of my current ability I have tried to share how much this wonderful week with Scott and Annelle was to me. I miss all of my teammates!! I am glad that God gave me the foresight to realize before I even left any of them in TZ that it would be hard. It has helped balance my emotions of the transitions and allow my head catch up with the heart at times! And, yes, I have described Scott and Annelle to chocolate chip cookies but you get the picture. (There are worse things to be compared to!) The highlight I think was seeing "African Cats" together! (Just a hint the best part is at the end so don't be so hasty to leave when the credits roll!) Ummm, yes, you can smell them the chocolate chip cookies and the sensation of home the aroma brings. Let me tell you for sure that Africa does not smell like chocolate chip cookies but it is my home away from home!

Prayer Points~

Pray for my teammates in the States (Price's & Noel's) as well as in TZ (Carters, Richmonds, Wash's and Wood's!) Though many miles separate us we are united in the call to love God's people in Tanzania!
Pray for my homesick heart for Africa!
I am grateful to God for Scott and Annelle who bridged my understanding of life in the States to a love and knowledge to uncover a home in Tanzania!

I think I may have to end and make some chocolate cookies! Something you can't do in Tanzania unless you take your own chocolate chips 30 + hours!

Kids Are Great!

2011-05-01T05:48:00.000+03:00

I was able to share with the Awana group at Grace in the northern part of Longmont. It is not new information for me but I am always amazed at the heart of kids! I know, I know the scripture says, "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." And to some of you reading it scares you because you are by no means a "kid person!" However, regardless, I think you would be able to agree with scripture despite your endless or limited kid influence. I am constantly reminded of faith that can move mountains, love that flows like a running river, and hope that soars beyond the horizon. My most recent example of this is my time with 3yr - 10 yr old Awana kids at Grace. Only a very few of the kids I knew. But, as I told them as much as I could of Tanzania and the kids that live there in twenty short minutes they instantly caught hold. Such great questions and an instant connection to help the kids in Tanzania of whom they may never meet here on Earth. Unfortunately, I think we adults should take a lesson sometime from our "wee influencers!"

My friend Kaarin was sharing with me that in her Bible Study at an entire different church one of the moms was sharing about a her child's reaction to a Missionary from Tanzania who spoke the night before to her three year old son. Kaarin knowing that it was me kept quiet as the woman shared about her little boy. He was so moved and interested about Tanzania when they got home they had to pull out a globe to locate Tanzania. Then, he was compelled to pray for the kids in Tanzania and me!
My "wee influencers" around the world!

Prayer Points~

Continual Prayer and Financial Support! Meetings out here in Colorado till the 12th of May. Trying to make the most of my days out West!
Sharing at Rocky Mountain Christian Church during the Sunday Morning Chapel Service May 1st.
BOUNCE for Tanzania! A fundraiser hosted by BOUNCE in Loveland, CO May 7th. Families can come and enjoy a fun family activity and $2.00 of every admission will go towards my outgoing budget to return to TZ.
Continual health and strength as I travel

ngoma

2011-04-18T22:47:00.000+03:00

Here in Colorado we celebrated Earth day by going to the park where many fun outside activities were taking place. As the girls ran to another group and station of activities I realized that tears were forming in my eyes. I began to cry. As I became aware of my surrounding I knew that the sound of an animal skin drum filled the area. Actually there were many with a strong beat. This style was more of the Native American Heritage but the closest thing to the sounds of Africa that my ears have heard in four months. A well of emotion came from within before I could even realize what was going on. My heart longs to hear the sounds of my Tanzanian kids worship with their little drums.

Momma Watoto misses her kids and the sounds of Africa!

Maasai Baptism

2011-04-18T22:33:00.000+03:00

http://youtube.com/watch?v=teiHafDJnnc