Rwanda, Part 2

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It's almost that time again. I never thought I'd go to Africa and now I'm counting down to my second trip and hoping it becomes a yearly excursion. People talk about having "Aha!" moments, but I think moments like these, and maybe I will call them "HaHa!" moments, are noteworthy as well.  The times when we think we know what our lives should like, where we want to go (and don't want to go!) and what we want to do and we find out in the best possible way, that it's not about US and God has a much better plan. So, somewhere in my past, my restricted, limited self said I never want to go to Africa or India and I hope God never sends me there. Today, I want to embrace freedom and open spaces and so I'm going to Africa AND India this year! HaHa!!! Thank you, Jesus. What a beautiful and tender joke and I AM laughing every time I think of the irony.

Another Green Pond rainbow to remind me of the promises of God.


My new friend, Laura. She sponsors Ella's big brother.

These 2 cuties helped me make a special box for Ella

All over my house, reminders of Ella.


Rwandan Flag Soap!!


































































































































So, this next week will be full of lists and packing and trying to contain my excitement. My suitcases will be full of gifts for Ella and her family, for Faina, the woman I help scholarship at the vocational training center and for our friends in Rwanda. I made soap, included the last of my custom made scripture cards from https://ipromiseshop.com/, bought jump ropes and soccer balls and bubbles and chalk. I've prayed and fasted and tried hard to fill up the empty space for Jim until he gets to finally come with me.

I made a special photo book for Ella https://www.mixbook.com/photo-books/interests/all-good-things-by-1canoe2-20355371?vk=iWWpUY3vKNo62W86HDVz and cried when I looked through it, wondering how it's possible to fall in love with a little person in less than an hour.

I'm including a link to our Amazon wish list page for items to bring to Rwanda for the women in the vocational program.We are going with our friends from YES Ministries in Texas and they are collecting these items.
 https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1O41DXTV1ZXHG?ref_=wl_share&fbclid=IwAR1mw2arMMxbacX_QGuNCf-0uFDRkhUsX80XSB-i0ajqQOQl8L6khi1O0jw

Last year I wanted to be able to update the blog while I was in Rwanda and it didn't work out the way I hoped. This year my expectations are more realistic and if I'm not able to update there, I will catch up when I get home. I am also using WhatsApp for broadcast updates if you want to add me!! Hopefully I can figure it all out.

Last but certainly not in any way, shape, or form, least, I will be sharing this trip with my niece, Nell and we would love for you to pray for us as we go. There are so many 'firsts' for her on this trip and I am confident God has a wonderful,  and transformative time for us. Still, a trip like this is always an emotional roller coaster and the journey can be rough, we will be seeing and hearing things that are disturbing and difficult for anyone, and especially so for a 17 year old. Thanks for reading along, I am rushing to get this out so pardon any oversights. I would love to read your comments and prayers.

Footnote...we will be visiting https://azizilife.com/products/ again and I will have a whole, empty suitcase to fill so if you see anything you like on their site, message me and I will get it for you! The prices on site are so much cheaper, I think my 12" basket was 9$. If you're flexible, I can let you know what I find and we can settle up later on cost and shipping.

Imana aguhe umugisha   (God Bless You)

Jeanne





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